Preliminary study on estimating fine root growth in a natural Pinus densiflora forest using a minirhizotron technique

Nam Jin Noh, Yowhan Son, Wooyong Jo, Koong Yi, Chan Woo Park, Saerom Han

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

5 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

The minirhizotron technique was used to investigate the spatial (soil depth) and temporal (season) changes of fine roots (≤2 mm) in a mature Pinus densiflora forest. Length, production, and mortality of fine roots were measured at different depths on seven dates between March and October 2011. Average fine root length (mm cm−2), production, and mortality (μm cm−2) during the growing seasons were 2.54 ± 0.82, 84 ± 27, and 7 ± 4 at 0–20 cm depth, 0.85 ± 0.37, 39 ± 13, and 14 ± 9 at 20–40 cm depth, and 1.26 ± 0.92, 45 ± 28, and 34 ± 16 at 40–60 cm depth, respectively. There was no significant difference in length, production, or mortality of fine roots among the different seasons and depths (P > 0.05). The seasonal pattern in fine root length generally increased during the growing seasons. The fine root production was high in summer, whereas the mortality was high in autumn. This preliminary result using a minirhizotron technique can be used for quantifying and understanding the fine root dynamics in P. densiflora forests.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)47-50
Number of pages4
JournalForest Science and Technology
Volume8
Issue number1
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2012 Mar

Keywords

  • Fine root length
  • Japanese red pine
  • Minirhizotron
  • Mortality
  • Production

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Forestry
  • Management, Monitoring, Policy and Law

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