Global Distribution of Root Nutrient Concentrations in Terrestrial Ecosystems

The compilation was used to examine dynamics of 14 nutrients, including translocation properties of roots of varying size and status.Fine roots are an important source and sink for nutrients in terrestrial biogeochemistry.

The data collected come from 56 published studies that give information on fine root (less than 5mm diameter) nutrient concentrations, root diameters, and retranslocation of nutrients. These studies include diverse vegetation and biomes, including grass, shrub, and tree functional types from temperate, tropical, boreal and tundra systems. The preponderance of data comes from experiments with temperate and coniferous trees.