Root-shoot allometry of tropical forest trees determined in a large-scale aeroponic system.

ABSTRACT:

Background and aims

This study is a first step in a multi-stage project aimed at determining allometric relationships among the tropical tree organs, and carbon fluxes between the various tree parts and their environment. Information on canopy-root interrelationships is needed to improve understanding of above- and below-ground processes and for modelling of the regional and global carbon cycle. Allometric relationships between the sizes of different plant parts will be determined.

Methods

Two tropical forest species were used in this study: Ceiba pentandra (kapok), a fast-growing tree native to South and Central America and to Western Africa, and Khaya anthotheca (African mahogany), a slower-growing tree native to Central and Eastern Africa. Growth and allometric parameters

SUBMITTER: Eshel A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3698382 | biostudies-literature | 2013 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature