The study of fine roots (FR) (roots < 2 mm in diameter) in the boreal forests has become a focus of many forest researchers in the past decade in an effort to better understand belowground processes and improve current carbon (C) models to better predict possible C sinks and sources. The objectives of this study were: 1) to determine the inter-annual variability in FR C production in relation to C cycling and other fluxes for four Saskatchewan boreal sites during a four year period, 2) to determine if minirhizotron (MR) estimates of root biomass were similar to root coring estimates, 3) to determine how root production, mortality, turnover, and longevity vary with root diameter class and soil depth, and 4) to determine if image collection orientation influenced estimates of FR biomass and production. Four Saskatchewan boreal sites including aspen (Populus tremuloides) (OA), black spruce (Picea mariana) (OBS), and two jack pine (Pinus banksiana) (mature OJP, young HJP94) stands were selected and MR were installed in July of 2002. Minirhizotron images were collected monthly from the end of May through September from 2003 to 2006. Total ecosystem C was estimated to be 47.5, 78.1, 163.1, and 450.5 Mg ha-1 for HJP94, OJP, OA, and OBS, respectively. The FR component of the ecosystem carbon storage ranged from 0.7 Mg ha-1 (1%) at HJP94 to 1.2 Mg ha-1 (< 1%) at OBS. Fine roots were found to contribute a very large portion of C production with estimates of 1.0, 0.6, 1.2, and 1.5 Mg ha-1 yr-1 accounting for 47, 27, 25, and 54% of total ecosystem C production at HJP94, OJP, OA, and OBS, respectively. In a one time comparison of MR and soil cores, FR biomass estimates were found to be similar at OJP, OA, and OBS, with MR estimates being significantly greater at HJP94. Approximately 85, 90, 96, and 96% of FR measured in this study were found to be less than 0.5 mm in diameter with median diameters of 0.250 ± 0.237, 0.225 ± 0.208, 0.175 ± 0.149 and 0.150 ± 0.149 (median ± SD) mm at HJP94, OJP, OA, and OBS, respectively. Fine root longevity was found to increase with increasing diameter and soil depth while turnover decreased. In many cases, it was found that even within a diameter interval of < 0.1 mm, differences in biomass, production, turnover, and longevity were detectable. This brings into question the use of the traditional 2 mm diameter class in FR studies. Fine root data, such as presented in this thesis, help to fill in some of the gaps in the knowledge base, enabling researchers to better understand the underground processes of the boreal forest and develop more complex and accurate C models.

The study of fine roots (FR) (roots < 2 mm in diameter) in the boreal forests has become a focus of many forest researchers in the past decade in an effort to better understand belowground processes and improve current carbon (C) models to better predict possible C sinks and sources. The objectives of this study were: 1) to determine the inter-annual variability in FR C production in relation to C cycling and other fluxes for four Saskatchewan boreal sites during a four year period, 2) to determine if minirhizotron (MR) estimates of root biomass were similar to root coring estimates, 3) to determine how root production, mortality, turnover, and longevity vary with root diameter class and soil depth, and 4) to determine if image collection orientation influenced estimates of FR biomass and production. Four Saskatchewan boreal sites including aspen (Populus tremuloides) (OA), black spruce (Picea mariana) (OBS), and two jack pine (Pinus banksiana) (mature OJP, young HJP94) stands were selected and MR were installed in July of 2002. Minirhizotron images were collected monthly from the end of May through September from 2003 to 2006. Total ecosystem C was estimated to be 47.5, 78.1, 163.1, and 450.5 Mg ha-1 for HJP94, OJP, OA, and OBS, respectively. The FR component of the ecosystem carbon storage ranged from 0.7 Mg ha-1 (1%) at HJP94 to 1.2 Mg ha-1 (< 1%) at OBS. Fine roots were found to contribute a very large portion of C production with estimates of 1.0, 0.6, 1.2, and 1.5 Mg ha-1 yr-1 accounting for 47, 27, 25, and 54% of total ecosystem C production at HJP94, OJP, OA, and OBS, respectively. In a one time comparison of MR and soil cores, FR biomass estimates were found to be similar at OJP, OA, and OBS, with MR estimates being significantly greater at HJP94. Approximately 85, 90, 96, and 96% of FR measured in this study were found to be less than 0.5 mm in diameter with median diameters of 0.250 ± 0.237, 0.225 ± 0.208, 0.175 ± 0.149 and 0.150 ± 0.149 (median ± SD) mm at HJP94, OJP, OA, and OBS, respectively. Fine root longevity was found to increase with increasing diameter and soil depth while turnover decreased. In many cases, it was found that even within a diameter interval of < 0.1 mm, differences in biomass, production, turnover, and longevity were detectable. This brings into question the use of the traditional 2 mm diameter class in FR studies. Fine root data, such as presented in this thesis, help to fill in some of the gaps in the knowledge base, enabling researchers to better understand the underground processes of the boreal forest and develop more complex and accurate C models.

Land development restricts tree growth by damaging soil structure and removing organic matter. Mechanical loosening and organic amendment may improve soil physical properties and tree establishment and growth. Effects of typical post-construction practice and improved methods of soil restoration on tree growth and soil properties were evaluated over two years. Treatments included undisturbed soil (UN); minimum effort (ME) (10 cm topsoil); enhanced topsoil (ET) (ME + rototilling); and profile rebuilding (PR) (compost, subsoiling, topsoil and rototilling). Pretreatment included removing topsoil and compacting subsoil to 1.95 g/cm3 bulk density. Acer rubrum L. (red maple), Quercus bicolor Willd. (swamp white oak), Ulmus 'Morton' (Ulmus japonica (Rehd.) Sarg. x Ulmus wilsoniana Schneid.) (Accolade® elm), Prunus 'First Lady' (Prunus xincam x Prunus campanulata) L. and Quercus macrocarpa Michx. (bur oak) were planted in each plot. The PR treatment reduced soil bulk density at 15-20 cm depth and increased soil C/N ratio, pH, and CEC. Mean canopy projection and cross-sectional trunk area in PR plots ranged from 32% to 226% and 16% to 71% greater, respectively, than those in ME plots. PR treatment increased Q. bicolor photosynthesis rates. Greater root presence was observed in deeper soil layers of ET and PR treatments for A. rubrum and of UN and PR for Q. bicolor; root distribution was not measured for other species. Rehabilitation improved soil physical properties and tree growth after two years. Species variation in growth rate and environmental tolerance appeared to influence early growth treatment effects. Long-term data is needed to fully understand effects of soil rehabilitation. / Master of Science

Short rotation woody crops have gained global interest as an alternative energy source to fossil fuels. The availability of this resource is, however, dependent on successful research trials and the identification and quantification of the environmental controls on rapid growth. Knowledge of willow root dynamics is required to determine belowground and aboveground growth relationships, and to provide valuable inputs for the development of a willow carbon model. The objectives of this study were to 1) determine fine root turnover, biomass, and productivity of six willow clones over two growing seasons at four locations in Saskatchewan using the minirhizotron method; 2) determine fine root biomass and fine root carbon sequestration of six willow clones over one growing season at four locations in Saskatchewan using the soil coring method; and 3) determine lateral coarse root structure of six willow clones at two locations in Saskatchewan.<p> Monthly fine root biomass and production was estimated for six willow clones in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan using repeated minirhizotron observations from May to September of 2008 and 2009. Fine root biomass increased from 0.78 Mg ha-1 in May 2008 to 25.75 Mg ha-1 in September 2009. Significant differences were seen between months throughout each growing season, but not between the clones. Mean monthly productivity reached its peak of 8.00 Mg ha-1 in July 2009. Mean turnover for all the clones was 0.96 yr-1 and mean longevity was 1.04 yr-1. The high fine root biomass estimates determined by the minirhizotron method in Saskatoon suggest that this method is not suitable for use in a Vertisolic soil. There was no significant effect of clone on fine root productivity, biomass, turnover or longevity (P < 0.05).<p> Fine root biomass estimates from the soil cores were lower than those from the minirhizotron method. The mean fine root biomass value in Saskatoon for September 2008 was 0.298 Mg ha-1. Mean fine root biomass at each site from September 2007 to September 2008 ranged from 0.022 Mg ha-1 to 0.915 Mg ha-1. Mean root carbon content ranged from 0.010 to 0.426 Mg C ha-1. Fine root biomass and root carbon content were significantly different between each site, with the exception of Saskatoon and Estevan (P < 0.05). Differences in fine root estimates between the sites are suggested to be a function of the soil texture and moisture accessibility at each site. This research indicates that willow roots in Saskatchewan find initial establishment difficult in low moisture, fine textured soils. Also, approximately 44.6 % of fine root biomass is comprised of C, and decomposes to form soil organic matter. Therefore, fine roots have potential to store substantial amounts of carbon if growing conditions are suitable.

Short rotation woody crops have gained global interest as an alternative energy source to fossil fuels. The availability of this resource is, however, dependent on successful research trials and the identification and quantification of the environmental controls on rapid growth. Knowledge of willow root dynamics is required to determine belowground and aboveground growth relationships, and to provide valuable inputs for the development of a willow carbon model. The objectives of this study were to 1) determine fine root turnover, biomass, and productivity of six willow clones over two growing seasons at four locations in Saskatchewan using the minirhizotron method; 2) determine fine root biomass and fine root carbon sequestration of six willow clones over one growing season at four locations in Saskatchewan using the soil coring method; and 3) determine lateral coarse root structure of six willow clones at two locations in Saskatchewan.<p> Monthly fine root biomass and production was estimated for six willow clones in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan using repeated minirhizotron observations from May to September of 2008 and 2009. Fine root biomass increased from 0.78 Mg ha-1 in May 2008 to 25.75 Mg ha-1 in September 2009. Significant differences were seen between months throughout each growing season, but not between the clones. Mean monthly productivity reached its peak of 8.00 Mg ha-1 in July 2009. Mean turnover for all the clones was 0.96 yr-1 and mean longevity was 1.04 yr-1. The high fine root biomass estimates determined by the minirhizotron method in Saskatoon suggest that this method is not suitable for use in a Vertisolic soil. There was no significant effect of clone on fine root productivity, biomass, turnover or longevity (P < 0.05).<p> Fine root biomass estimates from the soil cores were lower than those from the minirhizotron method. The mean fine root biomass value in Saskatoon for September 2008 was 0.298 Mg ha-1. Mean fine root biomass at each site from September 2007 to September 2008 ranged from 0.022 Mg ha-1 to 0.915 Mg ha-1. Mean root carbon content ranged from 0.010 to 0.426 Mg C ha-1. Fine root biomass and root carbon content were significantly different between each site, with the exception of Saskatoon and Estevan (P < 0.05). Differences in fine root estimates between the sites are suggested to be a function of the soil texture and moisture accessibility at each site. This research indicates that willow roots in Saskatchewan find initial establishment difficult in low moisture, fine textured soils. Also, approximately 44.6 % of fine root biomass is comprised of C, and decomposes to form soil organic matter. Therefore, fine roots have potential to store substantial amounts of carbon if growing conditions are suitable.

Os sistemas integrados de produção agropecuária (SIPAs) diversificam e intensificam a produção rural, embora ainda careçam de avanços e detalhamento dos processos e mecanismos envolvidos nas relações solo-planta-atmosfera, essenciais para adaptá-los e modelá-los para as diferentes eco-regiões e condições edafoclimáticas. Esse estudo investigou os efeitos da intensificação de sistemas integrados de produção agropecuária na quantidade, qualidade e origem da matéria orgânica do solo (MOS) e na dinâmica do crescimento e da decomposição radicular de espécies vegetais durante os períodos de lavoura e de pastejo. O experimento foi conduzido na Embrapa Pecuária Sudeste no estado de São Paulo, região sudeste do Brasil. Dois SIPAs foram avaliados: integração-lavoura-pecuária (ILP) e integração lavoura-pecuária-floresta (ILPF). Duas áreas de referência foram utilizadas: pastagem extensiva (não degradada) e floresta estacional semidecidual (somente para avaliações sobre a MOS). Duas épocas de avaliação foram consideradas: período lavoura (verão de 2014/15) e período pastagem (inverno de 2015 e verão de 2015/16). A quantidade (teores e estoques de C e N), a qualidade (índices de manejo de C, frações leve, particulada e mineral) e a origem (?13C e ?15N) da MOS na camada de 0-0,40 m, e o crescimento e a decomposição dos sistemas radiculares das espécies vegetais e o fluxo de água no perfil do solo (0-70 cm) foram avaliados durante os períodos de lavoura e de pastagem. Adicionalmente, na ILPF também foram avaliados estes parâmetros de plantas e solos em três distâncias das linhas de cultivo do eucalipto (1,9; 4,5 e 7,3 m). Converter a pastagem extensiva em ILP resultou em: (i) aumento da disponibilidade de nutrientes (Ca, Mg, K e P) no solo; (ii) incrementos nos estoques de C e N, bem como de frações lábeis da MOS; (iii) manutenção de maiores conteúdos de água no solo; e, (iv) ciclagem do C e N, com maiores produção e decomposição de raízes, inclusive em camadas mais profundas do solo. Implementar a ILPF sob área utilizada para ILP promoveu os seguintes efeitos: (i) redução nos conteúdos de água no solo; (ii) perdas nos teores das frações lábeis da MOS (iii) limitações na produção de raízes no período de lavoura (principalmente em locais próximos as árvores) e incrementos na decomposição radicular, acarretando em maiores taxas de ciclagem das raízes no solo; (iv) aumentos na ciclagem do C e N; e, (v) ocorrências de associações simbióticas nas raízes, tais como os fungos ectomicorrízicos, perceptíveis pela técnica de análises radiculares com uso de minirhizotron. De acordo com os resultados encontrados, sugere-se que o arranjo das árvores na ILPF seja reestruturado a partir do quarto ano de idade, quando estas limitaram o crescimento radicular e o aporte de matéria orgânica lábil, além de reduzir os conteúdos de água no solo. Entretanto, recomenda-se a intensificação da produção sob condições tropicais, pois a quantidade e a qualidade da MOS, e a produtividade e aprofundamento do sistema radicular foram incrementados ao longo do tempo sob SIPAs, principalmente na ILP / Integrated farming systems (IS) diversify and intensify rural production, although there are still gaps in advancing and detailing of the processes and mechanisms involved in the soil-plant-atmosphere relations, which are essential to adapt and model these systems for the different eco-regions and edafoclimatic conditions. This study investigated the effects of the intensification of IS on the quantity, quality and origin of soil organic matter (SOM) and on root growth and decomposition dynamics of plant species during cropping and grazing periods. The experiment was conducted at Embrapa Pecuária Sudeste, state of São Paulo, southeast region of Brazil. Two IS were evaluated: integrated crop-livestock system (ICL) and integrated crop-livestock-forest system (ICLF). Two references areas were used: extensive grazing (not degraded) and a semideciduous seasonal forest (only for SOM evaluations). Two evaluation periods were considered: cropping (summer of 2014/15) and grazing period (winter of 2015 and summer and winter of 2015/16). The quantity (C and N contents and stocks), quality (C management indexes, light, particulate and mineral SOM fractions) and the origin (?13C and ?15N) of SOM in the 0-0.40 m layer, and the growth and decomposition of the root systems of the plant species and water flow in the soil profile (0-0.7 m) were evaluated during cropping and grazing periods. In addition, in ICLF also these parameters of plants and soils were evaluated at three distances of eucalyptus rows (1.9, 4.5 and 7.3 m). The conversion of extensive grazing to ICL system resulted in: (i) increased availability of nutrients (Ca, Mg, K and P) in the soil; (ii) increases in C and N stocks, as well as labile fractions of SOM; (iii) maintenance of greater water content in the soil; and (iv) cycling of C and N, with higher root production and decomposition, even in deeper layers of the soil. Implementing the ICLF under the area used for ICL promoted the following effects: (i) reduction in soil water content; (iii) limitations in the root production in the cropping season (mainly in places near the trees) and increases in the root decomposition, resulting in higher cycling rates of the roots in the soil; (iv) increases in C and N cycling; and, (v) occurrence of symbiotic associations with the roots, such as ectomycorrhizal fungi, which were perceptible by the technique of root analysis using minirhizotrons. According to the results, it is suggested that the arrangement of the trees in the ICLF system need to be restructured after the fourth year of age, when they limited the root growth and the amount of labile organic matter, besides reducing the contents of water in the soil. However, farming intensification is recommended under tropical conditions, as the SOM quantity and quality, and the productivity and deepening of the root system were increased during cultivations in the IS, especially in the ICL system

As plantações brasileiras de eucaliptos apresentam um dos maiores valores da produção primária bruta (PPB) entre os diversos ecossistemas do mundo. Nos ecossistemas florestais, o fluxo total de carbono no solo é constituído em grande parte pela produção e mortalidade das raízes finas (diâmetro <= 2 mm), podendo representar 20-60% da PPB. Esse estudo teve como objetivo principal avaliar a dinâmica e o prazo de vida (PV) das raízes finas, através do método não-destrutivo de minirhizotrons (MR), em plantio de E. grandis (2-4 anos de idade) cultivados em latossolos. Os objetivos específicos foram divididos em três capítulos: i-) avaliar a influência da textura (20 e 40% de argila) na dinâmica das raízes finas, em camadas superficiais do solo (0-30 cm); ii-) estudar a dinâmica das raízes no solo arenoso até 6 m de profundidade; iii-) investigar as associações simbióticas das raízes finas de eucaliptos (2 anos do plantio) com fungos micorrízicos arbusculares (FMA) na superfície de solos com texturas contrastantes, e fungos ectomicorrízicos (ECM) em camadas profundas do solo arenoso (4 anos do plantio). As imagens da interface solo-MR foram produzidas quinzenalmente, através de um scanner portátil no interior dos tubos MR em um período de dois anos. O software WinRHIZO Tron foi utilizado para medir o comprimento e diâmetro das raízes finas que apareceram durante o estudo. O conteúdo de água no solo foi monitorado, até 10 m de profundidade com auxilio de sensores CS615 (Campbell), continuamente durante todo o período de estudo. As avaliações de FMA e ECM foram realizadas através de amostragens destrutivas do solo. Os resultados observados com os MR mostraram que a textura do solo teve influência direta no comprimento radicular na camada de 0-30 cm, onde o solo arenoso apresentou valores superiores em relação ao solo argiloso durante todo o estudo. Ao final de dois anos, o solo arenoso teve o dobro de comprimento total acumulado em relação ao solo argiloso, com 30 m m-2 imagem. Na mesma profundidade, as raízes finas provenientes do solo arenoso tiveram uma maior colonização por FMA em relação ao solo argiloso, com médias de 38,5 e 10,5%, respectivamente. Uma fraca correlação entre umidade do solo e a dinâmica de raízes para textura e profundidade do solo foi observada. As médias de elongação diária das raízes finas foram de 0,10 e 0,22 cm dia-1 na camada de 0-2 e 2-6 m de profundidade, respectivamente. A elongação diária máxima no perfil do solo foi de 3,5 cm dia-1 na camada de 5-6 m. Através de análises moleculares, foi identificada uma espécie de ECM (Pisolithus) na profundidade de 2-3 m. No geral, o PV e a taxa de ciclagem das raízes finas de eucaliptos foram em torno de 500 dias e 0,70 ano-1, respectivamente, não sofrendo influência significativa da textura e profundidade do solo. Quando as raízes finas foram analisadas por classe de diâmetro (< 0,03, 0,3-0,5 e 0,5-2,0 mm) e micorrização, observou-se uma diferença significativa na sua longevidade. As árvores de eucaliptos apresentaram uma alta capacidade de exploração do solo / Brazilian eucalyptus plantations are among the forest ecosystems in the world with the highest gross primary productivity (GPP). The total belowground carbon allocation, with mainly production and mortality of fine roots (diameter <= 2 mm), can account for 20-60% of GPP in forest ecosystems. This study aimed to evaluate the dynamic and lifespan of fine roots in E. grandis plantations (2-4 years old) established in Oxisol soils, using the non-destructive method of minirhizotrons (MR). The specific objectives of this study were divided into three chapters: i-) to evaluate the influence of soil texture (20 and 40% clay) in the dynamics of fine roots in the topsoil (0-30 cm); ii-) to study the dynamics of the fine roots in a sandy soil up to 6 m deep; iii-) to investigate the symbiotic associations of Eucalyptus fine roots (2 years old after planting) with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) in the upper soil layers for two contrasting soil textures, and ectomycorrhizal fungi (ECM) in deep layers of a sandy soil (4 years old after planting). Images at the interface soil-MR were taken fortnightly through a portable scanner within the MR tube over a period of two years. The WinRhizo Tron software was used to measure the length and diameter of the fine roots that appeared throughout the study period. Soil water contents were continuously monitored down to a depth of 10 m using CS615 sensors (Campbell). AMF and ECM were studied sampling soil cores. The MR technique showed that the soil texture direct influenced fine root growth in the 0-30 cm layer, with higher values in the sandy soil than in the clayey soil throughout the study period. After two years, the sandy soil reached a total cumulative length of 30 m m-2 image, which was twice as high as the clayey soil. At the same depth, fine roots had a greater colonization by AMF in the sandy soil compared to the clayey soil, with means of 38,5 and 10,5%, respectively. A weak correlation between relative extractable water and dynamics of fine roots was observed, whatever the soil texture and depth. The means of daily elongation of fine roots were 0,10 cm day-1 in the 0-2 m soil layers and 0,22 cm day-1 in the 2-6 m soil layer. The maximum daily root elongation throughout the soil profiles reached 3,5 cm day-1 at a depth of 5-6 m. A specie of ECM (Pisolithus) was identified through molecular analyzes at a depth 2-3 m. In general, the lifespan and the turnover rates of Eucalyptus fine roots were about 500 days and 0.70 yr-1, respectively, and the influences of soil texture and soil depth were not significant. The fine root longevity was significantly affected by the diameter class (< 0,3, 0,3-0,5 and 0,5-2,0 mm) and the mycorrhizal status, there was a significant difference in their longevity. The Eucalyptus trees exhibited a remarkably high capacity of soil exploration in the Oxisol studied

As plantações brasileiras de eucaliptos apresentam um dos maiores valores da produção primária bruta (PPB) entre os diversos ecossistemas do mundo. Nos ecossistemas florestais, o fluxo total de carbono no solo é constituído em grande parte pela produção e mortalidade das raízes finas (diâmetro <= 2 mm), podendo representar 20-60% da PPB. Esse estudo teve como objetivo principal avaliar a dinâmica e o prazo de vida (PV) das raízes finas, através do método não-destrutivo de minirhizotrons (MR), em plantio de E. grandis (2-4 anos de idade) cultivados em latossolos. Os objetivos específicos foram divididos em três capítulos: i-) avaliar a influência da textura (20 e 40% de argila) na dinâmica das raízes finas, em camadas superficiais do solo (0-30 cm); ii-) estudar a dinâmica das raízes no solo arenoso até 6 m de profundidade; iii-) investigar as associações simbióticas das raízes finas de eucaliptos (2 anos do plantio) com fungos micorrízicos arbusculares (FMA) na superfície de solos com texturas contrastantes, e fungos ectomicorrízicos (ECM) em camadas profundas do solo arenoso (4 anos do plantio). As imagens da interface solo-MR foram produzidas quinzenalmente, através de um scanner portátil no interior dos tubos MR em um período de dois anos. O software WinRHIZO Tron foi utilizado para medir o comprimento e diâmetro das raízes finas que apareceram durante o estudo. O conteúdo de água no solo foi monitorado, até 10 m de profundidade com auxilio de sensores CS615 (Campbell), continuamente durante todo o período de estudo. As avaliações de FMA e ECM foram realizadas através de amostragens destrutivas do solo. Os resultados observados com os MR mostraram que a textura do solo teve influência direta no comprimento radicular na camada de 0-30 cm, onde o solo arenoso apresentou valores superiores em relação ao solo argiloso durante todo o estudo. Ao final de dois anos, o solo arenoso teve o dobro de comprimento total acumulado em relação ao solo argiloso, com 30 m m-2 imagem. Na mesma profundidade, as raízes finas provenientes do solo arenoso tiveram uma maior colonização por FMA em relação ao solo argiloso, com médias de 38,5 e 10,5%, respectivamente. Uma fraca correlação entre umidade do solo e a dinâmica de raízes para textura e profundidade do solo foi observada. As médias de elongação diária das raízes finas foram de 0,10 e 0,22 cm dia-1 na camada de 0-2 e 2-6 m de profundidade, respectivamente. A elongação diária máxima no perfil do solo foi de 3,5 cm dia-1 na camada de 5-6 m. Através de análises moleculares, foi identificada uma espécie de ECM (Pisolithus) na profundidade de 2-3 m. No geral, o PV e a taxa de ciclagem das raízes finas de eucaliptos foram em torno de 500 dias e 0,70 ano-1, respectivamente, não sofrendo influência significativa da textura e profundidade do solo. Quando as raízes finas foram analisadas por classe de diâmetro (< 0,03, 0,3-0,5 e 0,5-2,0 mm) e micorrização, observou-se uma diferença significativa na sua longevidade. As árvores de eucaliptos apresentaram uma alta capacidade de exploração do solo / Brazilian eucalyptus plantations are among the forest ecosystems in the world with the highest gross primary productivity (GPP). The total belowground carbon allocation, with mainly production and mortality of fine roots (diameter <= 2 mm), can account for 20-60% of GPP in forest ecosystems. This study aimed to evaluate the dynamic and lifespan of fine roots in E. grandis plantations (2-4 years old) established in Oxisol soils, using the non-destructive method of minirhizotrons (MR). The specific objectives of this study were divided into three chapters: i-) to evaluate the influence of soil texture (20 and 40% clay) in the dynamics of fine roots in the topsoil (0-30 cm); ii-) to study the dynamics of the fine roots in a sandy soil up to 6 m deep; iii-) to investigate the symbiotic associations of Eucalyptus fine roots (2 years old after planting) with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) in the upper soil layers for two contrasting soil textures, and ectomycorrhizal fungi (ECM) in deep layers of a sandy soil (4 years old after planting). Images at the interface soil-MR were taken fortnightly through a portable scanner within the MR tube over a period of two years. The WinRhizo Tron software was used to measure the length and diameter of the fine roots that appeared throughout the study period. Soil water contents were continuously monitored down to a depth of 10 m using CS615 sensors (Campbell). AMF and ECM were studied sampling soil cores. The MR technique showed that the soil texture direct influenced fine root growth in the 0-30 cm layer, with higher values in the sandy soil than in the clayey soil throughout the study period. After two years, the sandy soil reached a total cumulative length of 30 m m-2 image, which was twice as high as the clayey soil. At the same depth, fine roots had a greater colonization by AMF in the sandy soil compared to the clayey soil, with means of 38,5 and 10,5%, respectively. A weak correlation between relative extractable water and dynamics of fine roots was observed, whatever the soil texture and depth. The means of daily elongation of fine roots were 0,10 cm day-1 in the 0-2 m soil layers and 0,22 cm day-1 in the 2-6 m soil layer. The maximum daily root elongation throughout the soil profiles reached 3,5 cm day-1 at a depth of 5-6 m. A specie of ECM (Pisolithus) was identified through molecular analyzes at a depth 2-3 m. In general, the lifespan and the turnover rates of Eucalyptus fine roots were about 500 days and 0.70 yr-1, respectively, and the influences of soil texture and soil depth were not significant. The fine root longevity was significantly affected by the diameter class (< 0,3, 0,3-0,5 and 0,5-2,0 mm) and the mycorrhizal status, there was a significant difference in their longevity. The Eucalyptus trees exhibited a remarkably high capacity of soil exploration in the Oxisol studied

Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior / Surface drip irrigation is widespread for the melon crop. To improve the efficiency of this system subsurface drip irrigation and plastic mulching can be used. These management practices can influence soil moisture, and growth and development of plants and hence fruit yeld and quality of melon. Root system can give good information for the design of the irrigation system, because it is closely related to the volume of soil used by the roots to absorb water and nutrients arising from irrigation. This study aimed to evaluate the influence of the position of emitters and plastic mulching on soil moisture, the final growth of roots and yield and fruit quality of drip irrigated melon plants. The experiment was conducted during the spring/summer of 2008 growing season at the Experimental area of the crop science Department of the University of Évora Portugal. Treatments consisted of surface drip irrigation (with and without plastic mulching) and subsurface drip irrigation (without plastic mulching). Soil moisture was monitored using a portable TDR probe and Watermark tensiometers. Leaf area, dry weight and number of leaves per plant were measured. Harvested fruits were separated into commercial and non-commercial and soluble solids content and the lenght and wieth of fruits were measured. Root growth was quantified in terms of root intensity, measured by a minirhizotron (non-destructive method) and root density (destructive method) measured by manual collection of soil samples over roots with an auger. Results indicated no significant differences among treatments for commercial yeld and for fruit quality parameters and vegetative growth of melon. The yeld of unmarketable fruits was significantly higher with surface drip irrigation without plastic mulching in relation to surface drip irrigation with plastic mulching and subsurface drip irrigation. The root length intensity varied significantly between treatments. Under cover of plastic, the increased intensity of roots tended to expand horizontally into the soil, while burying the emitters provided greater root depth in the soil profile, ie between 0.20 and 0.33 m . / A irrigação por gotejo localizado superficial é amplamente difundida na cultura do meloeiro. Para melhorar ainda mais a eficiência desse sistema é possível utilizar a irrigação em subsuperfície e a cobertura do solo nas linhas de cultivo por filme plástico, técnica conhecida como mulching. Essas opções de manejo podem influenciar na condição de umidade do solo e no crescimento e desenvolvimento das plantas e consequentemente na produtividade e qualidade dos frutos do meloeiro. Quanto ao sistema radicular, poderá representar uma informação viável para o dimensionamento do sistema de irrigação, por estar intimamente relacionado com o volume de solo explorado pelas raízes para absorção da água e nutrientes advindos da irrigação. Neste trabalho objetivou-se verificar a influência da posição dos gotejadores e da cobertura do solo por plástico na umidade do solo, no crescimento final de raízes e na produtividade e qualidade dos frutos do meloeiro irrigado por gotejo localizado. Para tal, cultivou-se o meloeiro na primavera/verão na área experimental do Departamento de Fitotecnia da Universidade de Évora Portugal. Os tratamentos constaram da irrigação por gotejo localizado superficial, com e sem cobertura do solo nas linhas de cultivo pelo plástico, e gotejo subsuperficial sem a cobertura do solo. A umidade do solo foi monitorada por meio de uma sonda TDR portátil e por tensiometros do tipo watermark. Foram coletados dados de área foliar, massa seca e número de folhas por planta. A colheita de frutos foi realizada para quantificar sua produtividade comercial e não comercial, seu teor de sólidos solúveis totais e diâmetro longitudinal e transversal. O crescimento radicular foi quantificado em termos de intensidade radicular, medida pelo minirhizotron, como método não destrutivo e densidade radicular, método destrutivo realizado por coletas manuais de amostras de solo mais raízes com um trado. Os resultados não indicaram diferenças significativas entre os tratamentos para a produtividade comercial e para os parâmetros relativos à qualidade dos frutos e crescimento vegetativo do meloeiro. A produção de frutos não comerciais foi significativamente maior no tratamento com irrigação superficial sem a cobertura do solo em relação à irrigação subsuperficial e a superficial com a cobertura do solo nas linhas de cultivo por filme plástico. A intensidade radicular variou significativamente entre os tratamentos. Sob a cobertura por filme plástico, além da maior intensidade radicular, as raízes tenderam a expansão horizontal no solo, enquanto que o enterrio dos gotejadores proporcionou maior crescimento radicular em profundidade no perfil do solo, ou seja, entre 0,20 e 0,33 m.

Os sistemas integrados de produção agropecuária (SIPAs) diversificam e intensificam a produção rural, embora ainda careçam de avanços e detalhamento dos processos e mecanismos envolvidos nas relações solo-planta-atmosfera, essenciais para adaptá-los e modelá-los para as diferentes eco-regiões e condições edafoclimáticas. Esse estudo investigou os efeitos da intensificação de sistemas integrados de produção agropecuária na quantidade, qualidade e origem da matéria orgânica do solo (MOS) e na dinâmica do crescimento e da decomposição radicular de espécies vegetais durante os períodos de lavoura e de pastejo. O experimento foi conduzido na Embrapa Pecuária Sudeste no estado de São Paulo, região sudeste do Brasil. Dois SIPAs foram avaliados: integração-lavoura-pecuária (ILP) e integração lavoura-pecuária-floresta (ILPF). Duas áreas de referência foram utilizadas: pastagem extensiva (não degradada) e floresta estacional semidecidual (somente para avaliações sobre a MOS). Duas épocas de avaliação foram consideradas: período lavoura (verão de 2014/15) e período pastagem (inverno de 2015 e verão de 2015/16). A quantidade (teores e estoques de C e N), a qualidade (índices de manejo de C, frações leve, particulada e mineral) e a origem (?13C e ?15N) da MOS na camada de 0-0,40 m, e o crescimento e a decomposição dos sistemas radiculares das espécies vegetais e o fluxo de água no perfil do solo (0-70 cm) foram avaliados durante os períodos de lavoura e de pastagem. Adicionalmente, na ILPF também foram avaliados estes parâmetros de plantas e solos em três distâncias das linhas de cultivo do eucalipto (1,9; 4,5 e 7,3 m). Converter a pastagem extensiva em ILP resultou em: (i) aumento da disponibilidade de nutrientes (Ca, Mg, K e P) no solo; (ii) incrementos nos estoques de C e N, bem como de frações lábeis da MOS; (iii) manutenção de maiores conteúdos de água no solo; e, (iv) ciclagem do C e N, com maiores produção e decomposição de raízes, inclusive em camadas mais profundas do solo. Implementar a ILPF sob área utilizada para ILP promoveu os seguintes efeitos: (i) redução nos conteúdos de água no solo; (ii) perdas nos teores das frações lábeis da MOS (iii) limitações na produção de raízes no período de lavoura (principalmente em locais próximos as árvores) e incrementos na decomposição radicular, acarretando em maiores taxas de ciclagem das raízes no solo; (iv) aumentos na ciclagem do C e N; e, (v) ocorrências de associações simbióticas nas raízes, tais como os fungos ectomicorrízicos, perceptíveis pela técnica de análises radiculares com uso de minirhizotron. De acordo com os resultados encontrados, sugere-se que o arranjo das árvores na ILPF seja reestruturado a partir do quarto ano de idade, quando estas limitaram o crescimento radicular e o aporte de matéria orgânica lábil, além de reduzir os conteúdos de água no solo. Entretanto, recomenda-se a intensificação da produção sob condições tropicais, pois a quantidade e a qualidade da MOS, e a produtividade e aprofundamento do sistema radicular foram incrementados ao longo do tempo sob SIPAs, principalmente na ILP / Integrated farming systems (IS) diversify and intensify rural production, although there are still gaps in advancing and detailing of the processes and mechanisms involved in the soil-plant-atmosphere relations, which are essential to adapt and model these systems for the different eco-regions and edafoclimatic conditions. This study investigated the effects of the intensification of IS on the quantity, quality and origin of soil organic matter (SOM) and on root growth and decomposition dynamics of plant species during cropping and grazing periods. The experiment was conducted at Embrapa Pecuária Sudeste, state of São Paulo, southeast region of Brazil. Two IS were evaluated: integrated crop-livestock system (ICL) and integrated crop-livestock-forest system (ICLF). Two references areas were used: extensive grazing (not degraded) and a semideciduous seasonal forest (only for SOM evaluations). Two evaluation periods were considered: cropping (summer of 2014/15) and grazing period (winter of 2015 and summer and winter of 2015/16). The quantity (C and N contents and stocks), quality (C management indexes, light, particulate and mineral SOM fractions) and the origin (?13C and ?15N) of SOM in the 0-0.40 m layer, and the growth and decomposition of the root systems of the plant species and water flow in the soil profile (0-0.7 m) were evaluated during cropping and grazing periods. In addition, in ICLF also these parameters of plants and soils were evaluated at three distances of eucalyptus rows (1.9, 4.5 and 7.3 m). The conversion of extensive grazing to ICL system resulted in: (i) increased availability of nutrients (Ca, Mg, K and P) in the soil; (ii) increases in C and N stocks, as well as labile fractions of SOM; (iii) maintenance of greater water content in the soil; and (iv) cycling of C and N, with higher root production and decomposition, even in deeper layers of the soil. Implementing the ICLF under the area used for ICL promoted the following effects: (i) reduction in soil water content; (iii) limitations in the root production in the cropping season (mainly in places near the trees) and increases in the root decomposition, resulting in higher cycling rates of the roots in the soil; (iv) increases in C and N cycling; and, (v) occurrence of symbiotic associations with the roots, such as ectomycorrhizal fungi, which were perceptible by the technique of root analysis using minirhizotrons. According to the results, it is suggested that the arrangement of the trees in the ICLF system need to be restructured after the fourth year of age, when they limited the root growth and the amount of labile organic matter, besides reducing the contents of water in the soil. However, farming intensification is recommended under tropical conditions, as the SOM quantity and quality, and the productivity and deepening of the root system were increased during cultivations in the IS, especially in the ICL system