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