We have provided a simple Observation Entry form to make it easy for you to enter your observations. Below is a list of the information that is asked for in the form.
Some simple guidelines for observing the phenology of Cakile
Record Where and When
1. The name of the site
2. The nearest town or municipality
3. State / Country
4. Latitude and longitude (if possible!)
5. Date (DD/MM/YYYY)
Along with letting us track the same populations overtime, location information can also help us find important climatic data that can be used to understand phenological difference between populations. Finally, location data can help us better identify the taxonomy of populations.
1. The name of the site
2. The nearest town or municipality
3. State / Country
4. Latitude and longitude (if possible!)
5. Date (DD/MM/YYYY)
Along with letting us track the same populations overtime, location information can also help us find important climatic data that can be used to understand phenological difference between populations. Finally, location data can help us better identify the taxonomy of populations.
Record What is Going On
There are five major phenological phases that are of interest
1. Germination
The presence of new seedlings (4 or fewer leaves)
2. Vegetation
Plants with more than four leaves that have not flowered or fruited
3. Flowering
Plants with one or more flowers
4. Fruiting
Plants with one or more fruits
5. Senescence
Plants that are no longer green (though they may have fruits still attached
See the Pictures page for examples of each phase
1. Germination
The presence of new seedlings (4 or fewer leaves)
2. Vegetation
Plants with more than four leaves that have not flowered or fruited
3. Flowering
Plants with one or more flowers
4. Fruiting
Plants with one or more fruits
5. Senescence
Plants that are no longer green (though they may have fruits still attached
See the Pictures page for examples of each phase
Record How Common Each Phase Is
In order to keep track of what is the most important phenological phase at the time of observation, you should record how common each phase is
1. Primary
Most common phenological phase
2. Secondary
Second most common phenological phase
3. Tertiary
Third most common phenological phase
1. Primary
Most common phenological phase
2. Secondary
Second most common phenological phase
3. Tertiary
Third most common phenological phase
Take Additional Notes!
Observations that don't fall in the above categories are always welcome! There is an section at the end of the form to include any additional information about the site, surround species, rare phenological phases, herbivore or disease damage, and so on! The more information the better!
