Phenophase is an observable stage in the annual life cycle of a plant or animal that can be defined by a start and end point. It has to do with chemical changes in the leaf that are probably mostly impacted by the changing levels of light. A tree will be able to sense that the light levels are changing, that it's getting lighter later and darker earlier. That will be a sign for them to start making chlorophyll. As the chlorophyll amount concentration decreases in the leaf, it'll be less green. And therefore, the other colors that are naturally in the leaf will become more visible and more vibrant.
The seasons are a-changin'! It's sweater weather in both hemispheres and seasonal researcher and expert Phenologist Dr. Libby Ellwood weighs in with amazing information about why fall smells so good, why leaves change color, why we like to cronch them, historical records of blossoms and twigs, bird migrations, Daylight Savings, seasonal mythbusting, pumpkin spice vs. apple cider, the best temperature to wear sweaters, why the Halloween aisle springs up in summer and how global temperature shifts affect the whole food web. Bonus: the most candid, touching thoughts Alie's ever heard from a scientist studying climate. Get this one in your ears and hearts.
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