Abstract
The root depths and maximum lateral spreads of two shrubs and four perennial grass species were examined in disturbed (backfilled) and undisturbed soil using 131I as a soil injected radiotracer. Although individual species differences were found, root distributions were not universally larger in one soil type or another. Big sagebrush ( Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis) roots were detected deeper in the undisturbed soil (1.00 vs 0.75 m), while green rabbitbrush ( Chrysothamnus viscidiflorus) roots were detected deeper in undisturbed soil (1.00 vs 0.50 m). Streambank wheatgrass ( Elymus lanceolatus) and crested wheatgrass ( Agropyron cristatum) roots were detected deeper in disturbed soil (1.00 m vs 0.75 m). Basin wildrye ( Leymus cinereus) exhibited the greatest lateral root spread (0.90 m). Soil moisture, rather than soil disturbance, seemed to dictate root depth.
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