Shifting seasons in the Southwest: Precipitation as a phenological driver

Many organisms are shifting their seasonal activity as a response to a changing climate. In temperate ecosystems, plants are blooming and leafing earlier in the spring, largely driven by warmer temperatures. This can result in a longer growing season, increased vulnerability to frost, and risk of pollinator mismatch. In arid ecosystems, plants often display complex and unexpected responses to climate. Variability in the timing and intensity of precipitation has been shown to both delay and advance the onset of leaves, flowers or fruits. Here I discuss case studies and opportunities to better understand and predict phenology in water-limited systems.