Root distribution of cactus pear genotypes under different soil water replacement levels

ABSTRACT Knowledge of the cactus pear root distribution system can improve management plant by defining areas soil best suited to fertilizer application and installation moisture sensors under irrigation. Thus, aim present study was assess genotypes different water replacement levels. To that end, a field experiment conducted in randomized block design, using genetic material from two (Opuntia fícus-indica Mill. Nopalea cochenillifera Salm-Dyck) six levels based on reference evapotranspiration - ET0 (T1, no irrigation; T2, 15%; T3, 30%; T4, 45%; T5, 60% T6, 75% ET0), arranged split-plot, with irrigation treatments allocated plots sub-plots, three replicates. The roots cultivars were collected for analysis length density (RLD) 390 days after planting. RDL very fine declines as depth distance base increases total, fine, small medium rise at higher levels; near RDL; all diameter classes are concentrated 0-0.20 m 0.10 0.25 m; percentage is Gigante genotype Miuda exhibits better distribution.