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Sampling volume in root studies: the pitfalls of under-sampling exposed using accumulation curves
Benton N Taylor1, Katilyn V Beidler, Emily R Cooper
1Department of Biology, College of Charleston, Charleston, SC 29401, USA. bentonneiltaylor@gmail.com
Ecology Letters
|May 11, 2013
Summary
Root sampling methods like minirhizotrons and soil coring often under-sample root diameters. This study quantifies under-sampling, providing guidelines for optimal sample volumes in root studies.
Area of Science:
- Soil science
- Ecology
- Plant biology
Background:
- Root systems are critical for below-ground carbon and nutrient cycling models.
- Sampling roots is challenging due to their fractal distribution, leading to under-sampling errors in global models.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify under-sampling in minirhizotron and soil coring methods for root studies.
- To determine optimal sample volumes for accurate root uptake and carbon content assessments.
Main Methods:
- Applied species accumulation curve concepts to root data.
- Compared root diameter data from minirhizotron and soil core sampling techniques.
Main Results:
- Minirhizotron sampling missed about one-third of root diameters compared to soil cores.
- Average sample volumes required for 90% root diameter representation were 2481 cm³ for uptake and 5878 cm³ for carbon content studies.
Conclusions:
- Small sample volumes yield non-representative root pool samples.
- Established guidelines for optimal sample volumes to improve root study accuracy.
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