Root Systems of Four Desert Grassland Species on Grazed and Protected Sites

Abstract

Root systems of species of Aristida, Bouteloua and Trichachne were restricted to the upper 7 inches of soil, with depth penetration of roots influenced by characteristics of the soil. Grazing affected root development by reducing the amount of branching of first-order roots and, in 2 species of Bouteloua, by decreasing total root density. Root diameter was not affected.