Abstract
Cadmium was added at two concentration levels to the soil in 1973. Samplings were made in 1974. Filipendula ulmaria L. accounted for at least 80% of the total plant biomass. In untreated plots, maximum aboveground biomass of Filipendula (430 g m2) was obtained in early August. The main part of the total biomass, 60% or more, was below ground. About half of the belowground biomass was in rhizomes. A separation into current and previous year's roots revealed the yearly turnover of roots to be 75%. Primary production was estimated by four methods of calculation, which are compared and discussed. Depending on the method used, aboveground production was estimated at 409-544 g m2 and that below ground at 386-654 g m2. Within a year, 60% of aboveground litter might disappear, while disappearance of root litter seemed to be very rapid after root death. Aboveground biomass was only slightly affected at the lower Cd treatment. At the higher one, visual symptoms of Cd toxicity and reduced growth arose early in the season. Belowground organs was much more affected than aboveground ones. Especially the root biomass in the uppermost part of the soil was seriously decreased but in relation to untreated plots, growth was more vigorous deeper in the soil. Litter disappearance was retarded in Cd treated plots and root litter accumulated during the season.
Published Version
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