Root and leaf functional trait relations in Poaceae species: implications of differing resource-acquisition strategies

Aims Root systems play an essential role in grassland functioning in both acquisition and storage of resources. Nevertheless, root functional traits have not received as much attention as those measured on aboveground organs, and little is known about their relations. Our objectives were to test whether morphological and root system traits allowed identification of grass species’ functional strategies and to determine whether a relation exists between above- and below-ground traits. Methods Functional traits of root tissues (specific root length, diameter, tissue density and nitrogen concentration), whole root systems (root mass, root length density, root mass percentage below a depth of 20 cm and fine root %) and tw o major leaf traits (specific leaf area and leaf dry matter content) were determined under field conditions and their relations were analysed in eleven perennial temperate Poaceae species.

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