Fine roots dynamics and biomass of Phyllanthus emblica -based agroforestry system in Bundelkhand region of Central India

Abstract

Fine roots are the most important contributors of ecosystem productivity in many terrestrial ecosystems. However, its dynamics, biomass potential, production and turnover rates of fine roots under different environments lack clarity. We have studied horizontal and vertical distribution of fine root dynamics, including length, density, biomass, production and turnover rates in Phyllanthus emblica -based agroforestry system in stressed environment of red soil patch of Bundelkhand region in Central India. Nearly, 63% of the fine root length and its density are confined to 0–45 cm soil depth. Fine root biomass significantly varied across seasons with 70–80% of the biomass obtained during autumn, followed by spring and summer seasons. The annual fine root production rates were highest near the stem base up to 1.0 m distance and the turnover rates varied from 1.63 yr–1 (highest) at 0.5 m distance to 1.03 yr–1 (lowest) at 1.5 m distance from the stem base. The fine root dynamics changed highly across seasons, indicating more vigorous vegetative growth and nutrient release during monsoon months. Thus, studies on fine root dynamics can improve our understanding of overall system productivity and management under stressed environments