Variation in the morphology of fine roots in Cryptomeria japonica determined by branch order-based classification

Abstract

This study assessed intraspecific variation in morphological traits of the fine root branch orders of Cryptomeria japonica, and identified variation in the diameter of the first three-order roots among species types with mycorrhiza, and the diameter of first-order roots at the family level. Diameter, length, and specific root length of branch order roots (up to the fourth-order) were measured in intact fine root systems collected in four C. japonica stands. Relationships between soil chemical properties and morphological traits of the first- to fourth-order roots were investigated. The diameter of roots of 52 tree species reported in previous studies was compared at species types with mycorrhiza and at family level. The diameter of first-order roots in C. japonica varied by 1.2 times among stands. Negative correlations between soil NH4+ content and specific root length of the second- and third-order roots were observed in C. japonica. The diameter of first- and second-order roots forming arbuscular mycorrhiza in coniferous trees were significantly higher than those of roots forming ectomycorrhiza in coniferous and broadleaf trees. The diameter of first-order roots in Cupressaceae were significantly larger than those of Pinaceae, Sapindaceae, Betulaceae, and Fagaceae. Clarifying intraspecific variation in morphological traits of C. japonica lower-order roots may contribute to understanding their responses to different site conditions such as soil inorganic nitrogen contents.