Phenological asynchrony
- Pronunciation
- /fiː-nə-ləˈdʒɪ-kəl əˈsɪŋ-krə-ni/
- Category
- Ecology
- Singular
- Phenological asynchrony
- Plural
- Phenological asynchronies
Definition
The temporal mismatch in the timing of developmental events between interacting species, often due to differences in their respective responses to environmental cues.
Etymology
From Greek 'phainō' meaning 'to show or appear', 'chronos' meaning 'time', and 'a-' meaning 'not' or 'without'.
Example
The phenological asynchrony between a host plant and its herbivore can lead to the herbivore missing critical food resources.
Related Terms
- Timing
- Development
- Synchrony
- Interdependence
Usage Notes
Phenological asynchrony can have significant ecological consequences, affecting species interactions, population dynamics, and ecosystem functioning.