The role of root development of Avena fatua in conferring soil strength.

摘要: UNLABELLED • PREMISE OF THE STUDY Roots play an important role in strengthening and stabilizing soils. Existing models predict that tensile strength root abundance are primary factors strengthen soil. This study quantified how both affected by developmental stage.• METHODS Focusing on early development of Avena fatua, a common grassland species with fibrous system, we chose three stages associated major changes the system. Seeds were planted rhizotrons for easy viewing pots to allow growth surrounded Tensile was determined subjecting segments progressively larger pulling force until breaking occurred. Root at two depths characterized cross-sectional area roots divided soil core (i.e., ratio). Shear 50 mm saturated columns modified interface direct shear device.• KEY RESULTS increased factor ≥15× distance from tip. Thus, soil-strengthening properties cell development. Plants grown under dry conditions produced higher maximal (41.9 MPa vs. approximately 17 MPa), largely explained 33% thinner diameters. Over 7 weeks growth, 4.8× while 24% upper layer.• CONCLUSIONS should be incorporated into stability improve understanding this environmental property.