Talk:Rhizosphere (ecology)

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[edit] Root zone

I reverted, removing the following underlined text:

Rhizosphere as a tree's root zone. It is the region of soil that is directly influenced by plant roots. Generally, well developed rhizosphere's have quicker mineral weathering rates and slower landscape erosion rates. Size of the rhizosphere is directly related to site water charactersitics, topography, and the type of vegetation present. In terms of water, areas of water surplus (more rainfall than evaporation) thicker rhizosphere's are found than in drier climates. Topography acts as a control of water availability where steeper sites shed water and soil, thus reducing the capacity for a deep rhizosphere to develop. the type of vegetation is a critical factor in determining depth of the rhizosphere, namely due to the level of carbon cycling associated with different plants. Deciduous plants shed leaves annually, and this input of carbon is vital in developing deeper root zones. This effect is by transfer of root exudates and root tissue to soil. This process is termed rhizodeposition. In the rhizosphere, soil microorganisms (such as mycorrhiza, worms, nematodes, and springtails), burrowing fauna (such as wombats, moles, and rabbits) and the plant function of roots are critical for the rhizosphere. Mycorrhiza is a fungal association with root surfaces that are observed terrestrially via toadstools (reproductive heads). These organisms break down mineral surfaces and free up nutrients for plant functionality. Worms and nematodes perform similar functions, however, they dissolve minerals through digestive processes associated with enzymes. These organisms and other burrowing fauna are important in the rhizosphere as they penetrate soil colloids creating soil pores (gaps between soil aggregates). Aggregation of soil is essential for the input of surface water and air, both of which maintain soil health. Root interaction within the rhizosphere is characterised by the exudation of organic compunds (namely organic anions), and the transference of organic tissue matter into the soil. This process is termed rhizodeposition and is essentially a soil "building" process. In nutrient deficient or nutrient toxic areas, this process reduces the impact that the stress is having on the plant.

The rhizosphere is not synonymous with root zone, plant rooting depth or rooting soil depth. It is a component within the root zone. The root zone is made up of both rhizospheric soil and bulk soil. Perhaps the above can be used to create a new article: root zone. -- Paleorthid 19:23, 3 July 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Apologies

Apologies regarding the, now removed, contribution regarding the root zone. —The preceding unsigned comment was added by Grizzlydeer (talk • contribs) .