Identification and explanation of broad patterns in fine root lifespan across a range of temperate trees species and temperate forests

Luke McCormack, Penn State University

September 30, 2009 @ 01:20 pm to 02:10 pm

10 Tyson

Fine root lifespan directly affects carbon flux from plants into soils as well as nutrient and water uptake from soils._ Thus, understanding the average fine root lifespan of different species and across different sites is important to plant physiologists and ecosystem ecologists alike._ In this talk I will discuss preliminary data collected from a common garden experiment comprised of 12 common temperate tree species and provide evidence that patterns of fine root lifespan do exist across different tree species._ Furthermore, I will propose a second phase of work that will assess patterns of fine root lifespan across a North to South range of temperate forests in the Eastern United States._