Spatial Distribution of Fine Roots in Quercus mongolica and Quercus acutissima Stands

신갈나무와 상수리나무 숲에서 細根의 空間分布

Vertical and horizontal distribution and seasonal changes of fine roots as well as inorganic nitrogen content in soil were determined in Quercus mongolica and Quercus acutissima stands in Mt. Taemosan, Seoul. The vertical distribution of fine rooth phytomass showed a power-functional decrease as descending soil depth. Fine root phytomass was 170 g $DM/m^2$(46%) and 225 g $DM/m^2$(47%) in top soil of 5 cm depth, and 370 g $DM/m^2$ and 480 g $DM/m^2$ from soil surface to 50 cm depth in Q. mongolica and Q. acutissima stands, respectively. Fine roots in relation to the distance from the nearest tree were evenly distributed horizontally in both stands. Fine roots phytomass in top soil of 5 cm depth reached a peak in June, and thereafter decreased gradually in both stands. Patterns of seasonal changes in fine root phytomass were closely related to inorganic nitrogen and moisture content.