Fine Root Biomass Distribution of Moso Bamboo at Different Ages

Abstract:

The aim was to elucidate fine root biomass distribution differences of moso bamboo (Phyllostachys edulis) at different ages. The fine root biomass (W_FRB), specific root length (L_SRL), root tissue density (D_RTD), and root length density (D_RLD) were analyzed in the horizontal and vertical direction of different age moso bamboo. The results showed that along the age of moso bamboo, the W_FRB and D_RLD increased at first and then decreased, the L_SRL decreased, and the D_RTD decreased at first and then increased. The W_FRB and D_RLD were the biggest at 60 cm from main stem, the D_RTD and the L_SRL were at 20 cm and 40 cm, respectively. The differences of W_FRB, L_SRL, D_RTD and D_RLD were not significant among different horizontal distances from bamboo stem. The W_FRB was the biggest at 10-20 cm soil layer, and the D_RTD was at 20-30 cm soil layer. The differences of W_FRB, L_SRL, D_RTD and D_RLD were not significant among different soil depthes, too. The W_FRB and D_RTD of 0-1 mm fine roots were smaller than those of 1-2 mm fine roots, while the L_SRL and D_RLD were bigger. Therefore, the age of moso bamboo had significant effects on the growth of fine roots. The L_SRL and D_RTD of 1-year-old bamboo were bigger, which display greater resource utilization efficiency. The even distribution of fine roots of moso bamboo could more efficient use water and fertilizer resources in a particular area.