Phenological aspects and Ecological significance of Native Plants of Aravalli range adjoining district Gurugram, Haryana

The Aravalli range is the oldest mountain systems in India and supports a semi-arid, dry deciduous ecosystem that is vital for maintaining ecological stability in northwestern India. Rapid urbanization and ecological degradation have intensified the need for precise phenological data to inform conservation strategies.This study investigates the phenological behaviour of almost 30 native plant species belonging to diverse botanical families in the Aravalli region of Gurugram, Haryana. This includes comprehensive survey of native plants species conducted during the period of 2024-25 focusing mainly on leaf emergence, flowering, fruit development, and senescence—across a representative selection of around 30 species from families such as Fabaceae, Combretaceae, Meliaceae, Malvaceae , and Moraceae . Observations were recorded over a full annual cycle to identify species-specific responses to climatic triggers and seasonal transitions. Patterns indicate that most species initiate flowering during the late winter to early summer period (February to May), while fruiting peaks typically between May and July, influenced by pre-monsoon and early monsoon conditions.The study signifies distinct variations in phenological timing, suggesting adaptive strategies that mitigate competition for pollinators and dispersal agents. These findings are critical for ecosystem restoration, afforestation planning, and biodiversity conservation efforts in the Aravalli hills. Moreover, the compiled phenological data provide a foundational reference for long-term ecological monitoring under changing climatic conditions. This research underlines the importance of phenology as a bioindicator of ecosystem health and resilience in the Aravalli landscape. This study represents a cross-section of ecological niches and functional plant types-trees, shrubs, herbs, and grasses- offering a holistic view of seasonal biological activity in this semi-arid ecosystem and create awareness to preserve this diversity in the Aravalli.