Coarse root distribution of Vatica pauciflora (Korth.) Blume in different soil slopes as revealed by root detector

Abstract

Tree roots have an essential role in absorbing water and nutrients from the soil and supporting tree stability. As an anchor for the tree, the environment can significantly affect root structure but it is rarely investigated due to below ground distribution. The study was aimed to determine the distribution of coarse roots of Vatica trees (Vatica pauciflora) which grows in different soil slopes. Six mature Vatica trees at Bogor Botanical Garden were selected in this study. Root detector as the main tool based on acoustic method was used to evaluate the root distribution. Analysis photogrammetry was carried out to complement the root detector results. The results found that the root detector only can evaluate the radial distribution of coarse root, while root distribution on downward soil cannot be detected. The condition of the site with different slope categories (e.g., flat to steep) affected root distribution patterns. A study on root distribution was useful to assist the evaluation of tree stability and to support arboriculture study.