Fine Root Biomass in Acer monspessulanum Trees and Its Relation to Ecological Factors in Zagros Mountain Forests

Aims Roots of diverse diameters and various physiological behaviours and physical roles compose the root systems of forest trees and its distribution influence the quantities and distributions of plant obtainable water and nutrient. Materials & Methods Fine roots of Acer trees (n=40) were sampled randomly at soil depths of 0-15 and 15-30 cm in north and south positions under canopy of trees. The fine roots were washed (d≤ 2 mm) and dried at 70°C and weighed. Furthermore, diameter at breast height (cm), total height (m), crown (m) for target trees and slope, altitude, and exposition of each sample point were measured in research site. Findings The results showed that soil depth has been influenced on fine root biomass; so, the highest amount was observed in depth of 15-30 cm rather than 0-15cm. The difference between elevations was not significant with regard to fine root biomass. The value of biomass in west aspect was greater than east one. The slope had no effect on the fine root biomass of trees in the site, as well Pearson correlation coefficient indicated that with increasing crown of trees, fine root biomass was increased. There was a positive correlation (p<0.05) between the biomass of fine roots and BD (gr.cm-3), sand (%) and a negative, but statistically insignificant correlation with P (p<0.05) Conclusion We found that depth of soil profile, exposition, crown of trees, as well as bulk density and sand (%) appeared to be a contributing factors for fine root biomass values in Acer trees.