A ¹⁵N tracer technique for assessing fine root production and mortality

Abstract

We tested a ¹⁵N tracer technique to assess fine root production and mortality based on temporal measurements of the ¹⁵N mass in fine root structural tissues and the ¹⁵N concentration of the plant-available soil N pool. The results of a pilot study indicated that this technique is based on sound methods and reasonable assumptions. The ¹⁵N tracer technique avoids most of the major limitations which hinder existing methods and may provide valuable insight into the rates and controls of fine root production and mortality in terrestrial ecosystems.