Quantification of Root Systems and Soil Macropore Networks Association to Soil Saturated Hydraulic Conductivity in Forested Wetland Soils

Understanding the relationship between root systems, soil macropore networks, and hydraulic properties is important to better assess ecosystem health. In this study, treatments were performed in forested wetland soils with different vegetation densities, i.e., large (LWa) small communities (LWb) of reed (Phragmites australis (Cav.) Trin. ex Steud.). At each plot, three undisturbed PVC cylinders (10 cm diameter 50 height) obtained, X-ray microtomography (μCT) scanning was used determine architectures. Results showed that values total length volume at LWa significantly larger than those LWb (p < 0.05). Imaged macroporosity, volume, density, node branch mean surface area, diameter, 0.05), whereas length, tortuosity LWa. Total positively correlated saturated conductivity. conductivity, negatively conclusion, systems networks constitute a complex synthesis inside environments, together affect hydrological responses.