A model of the root biomass dynamics of a shortgrass prairie dominated by blue grama (Bouteloua gracilis).

Published online
01 Jan 1975
Content type
Journal article
Journal title
Journal of Applied Ecology
DOI
10.2307/2402222

Author(s)
Ares, J. & Singh, J. S.

Publication language
English
Location
USA & Colorado

Abstract

A compartment model is described which simulates the root biomass dynamics of shortgrass prairie; fluxes between compartments are treated as time-varying functions controlled by the donor or acceptor compartment. Sensitivity analysis of the model indicated that the rate of C translocation from the above-ground pool to non-suberized roots and the rate of respiration and death of roots and their rate of ageing, were crucial factors in altering the pattern of C distribution within the whole system.

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