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Differences in fine root functional traits among five tree species in coastal saline-alkali soil and the influence of soil physicochemical factors
Abstract
Fine roots (φ ≤ 2) play an important role in underground ecological processes in plants; however, their adaptation strategy to the soil environment is unclear. In this study, differences in fine root morphology, biomass, productivity, and decomposition and turnover rates of 5 different tree species: Ligustrum lucidum, Salix matsudana, Sapium sebifera, Robinia pseudoacacia, and Quercus virginiana, on newly reclaimed saline-alkali coastal land were investigated via the root drill continuous sampling method. Influencing soil physicochemical factors were also investigated. R. pseudoacacia had the greatest specific root length and surface area; root density and productivity were greatest in L. lucidum fine root decomposition was highest in S. sebifera and S. matsudana had the greatest turnover rate. Redundancy analyses of the relationships between fine root traits and soil physicochemical properties revealed that soil electrical conductivity, moisture, temperature, total N, and organic matter were the main factors influencing fine root traits. Based on differences in fine root functional traits and adaptation to coastal saline-alkali soils, the species recommended for restoration planting were ranked as LI, SA, SM, RP, and QV, in descending order. These findings provide a scientific basis and technical support for greening tree species screening and ecological restoration in coastal saline-alkali soils.
