Fine root heterogeneity by branch order: exploring the discrepancy in root turnover estimates between minirhizotron and carbon isotopic methods

Dali Guo; Harbin Li; Robert J. Mitchell; Han Wenxuan; Joseph J. Hendricks; Timothy J. Fahey; Ronald L. Hendrick

doi:10.1111/j.1469-8137.2007.02242.x

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Fine root heterogeneity by branch order: exploring the discrepancy in root turnover estimates between minirhizotron and carbon isotopic methods

Informally Refereed

Authors:

Dali Guo, Harbin Li, Robert J. Mitchell, Han Wenxuan, Joseph J. Hendricks, Timothy J. Fahey, Ronald L. Hendrick

Year:

2008

Type:

Scientific Journal

Station:

Southern Research Station

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1469-8137.2007.02242.x

Source:

New Phytologist (2008) 177: 443?456

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Abstract

Fine roots constitute a large and dynamic component of the carbon cycles of terrestrial ecosystems. The reported fivefold discrepancy in turnover estimates between median longevity (ML) from minirhizotrons and mean residence time (MRT) using carbon isotopes may have global consequences.

Keywords

carbon isotope, ecosystem carbon balance, fine roots, minirhizotron, root branch order, root longevity, root turnover

Citation

Guo, Dali; Li, Harbin; Mitchell, Robert J.; Wenxuan, Han; Hendricks, Joseph J.; Fahey, Timothy J.; Hendrick, Ronald L. 2008. Fine root heterogeneity by branch order: exploring the discrepancy in root turnover estimates between minirhizotron and carbon isotopic methods. New Phytologist (2008) 177: 443?456