Vol.04. Nos.2 (2005) pp.183-191
Title:

Root morphology and development in rattans. 4. Root system development in Calamus thwaitesii Becc. and Hook. f. and Calamus rotang L. in relation to the chemical properties of a degraded lateritic soil.

Authors:Jayasree, V.K; Sujatha, M.P; Renuka, C; Rugmini, P

Abstract:This paper, the fourth and the last one in a series on root morphology and development in rattans, mainly evaluates the influence of the chemical properties of a degraded lateritic soil on root growth in Calamus. The study area, soil sampling and methodology remain the same as given in the previous paper on the influence of soil physical properties on root growth of Calamus. Results revealed that C. thwaitesii favoured more acidic soil compared to C. rotang. Organic carbon, available nitrogen and extractable phosphorus are significantly and positively related to root growth in both species while exchange acidity and exchangeable aluminium are significantly and positively correlated with root growth only in C. thwaitesii. A significant and positive relation was seen for calcium on the root growth of C. rotang. Significant influence of radial distance on root growth was observed with respect to most of the properties while change in depth had no influence. Stepwise regression analysis revealed that root growth during the early stages is generally influenced by properties such as soil moisture, and contents of sand, organic carbon, available N, exchangeable K and exchangeable Ca.

Keywords:      Vol 4(2) Page 183

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