Comparison of the fine root dynamics of Populus euphratica forests in different habitats in the lower reaches of the Tarim River in Xinjiang, China, during the growing season

Abstract

The fine root dynamics of Populus euphratica forests in the upper section (Yingsu) and lower section (Alagan) habitats of the lower reaches of the Tarim River, southern Xinjiang, China, were investigated and compared by a sequential soil coring method during the growing season of 2008. Soil organic carbon, total nitrogen, soil water content, fine root biomass, necromass, and production were significantly higher in Yingsu than in Alagan, suggesting better nutrient conditions for fine root growth in Yingsu than in Alagan. Fine root biomass, necromass, and production significantly increased from April until it peaked in August, and then it decreased. Fine root biomass, necromass, and production differed significantly among the soil layers, and their largest values appeared in the soil layer 40–80 cm deep. Mean turnover rates in the 0–120 cm soil layer were 1.60 and 1.52 year−1 in Yingsu and Alagan, respectively, and the fine root turnover rate did not differ significantly between the two habitats or among the soil layers. These results show that habitat change can significantly affect fine root biomass and the production of P. euphratica forests, leading to changes in plant primary production, nutrient cycling, and carbon sequestration in forest ecosystems in the lower reaches of the Tarim River.