Wycliff Oronyi

Dr. Wycliff Oronyi

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Research Focus & Metrics

Academic Career Length

2Years (2025-Present)

(Calculated once Scilit publication data is synced: current year − year of first publication + 1)

Representative Publications

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13 June 2025 in Forests
Verified
Journal Article
Open access
PDF file
JNJohn Maina Nyongesa
John Maina Nyongesa
WOWycliff Oronyi
Wycliff Oronyi
Lawrence OyooLawrence Oyoo
Lawrence Oyoo
ERErnest Kiplangat Ronoh
Ernest Kiplangat Ronoh
LMLindsay Sikuku Mwalati
Lindsay Sikuku Mwalati
YLYuelin Li
Yuelin Li
Understanding the seasonal regulation of transpiration and stomatal conductance is critical for evaluating plant water-use strategies in response to environmental variability. This study assessed these physiological traits in three dominant savanna tree species (Piliostigma thonningii (Schumach.) Milne-Redh., Combretum molle R.Br. ex G.Don, and Balanites aegyptiaca (L.) Delile) in Ruma National Park, Kenya. Measurements were taken during wet and dry seasons under varying canopy light conditions (light-exposed vs. shaded leaves) and soil moisture regimes. A randomized design with four treatments and three replicates was employed. Results showed significantly higher transpiration and stomatal conductance during wet seasons, especially in sunlit leaves (p < 0.05). P. thonningii exhibited the highest rates of transpiration (9 mmol m−2 s−1) and stomatal conductance (~2.2 mmol m−2 s−1) in light conditions, while B. aegyptiaca maintained consistently low values, reflecting a drought-tolerant strategy. C. molle demonstrated intermediate responses, suggesting a balance between water conservation and resource use. Despite seasonal trends, low R2 values indicated that internal physiological regulation outweighed the influence of external climatic drivers. These findings reveal species-specific water-use strategies and highlight the ecological significance of leaf-level responses to light and moisture availability in tropical savannas. The study provides valuable insights for forest management and climate-resilient restoration planning in water-limited ecosystems.