Comparison of Fine root Biomass Stand of Three Tree Species (Eucalyptus camaldulensis, Accacia abyssinica and Cordia africana) at Bahirdar University, Peda Campus

Abstract Even though fine roots consist of small fraction (<5 %) of the total biomass of standing crop, fine root production represents a large proportion (30 % - 65 %) of annual net primary production in forest ecosystems. Therefore, investigation on the tree fine root dynamics of different tree species could provide information on the role of each species in nutrient cycle, carbon cycle, and carbon sequestration in their ecosystems. Furthermore, understanding on fine root biomass production and turnover enhances sustainable management practices of forest ecosystems. In this study three tree species (A. abyssinica, C. africana, E. camaldulensis) were selected to investigate fine root biomass stand at the Peda Campus of Bahir Dar University. These three species were compared for their total fine root biomass. The depth wise distribution of fine root biomass was investigated for these three tree species. E. camaldulensis showed significantly (P<0.05) highest fine root biomass than A. abyssinica and C. Africana. Fine root biomass observation for A. abyssinica, C. Africana, and E. camaldulensis were; 281.5 ±20.5, 286.6±12.2, and 755.4±28.2, respectively in g/m2 (Mean±SE). 74% of fine root biomass for both of Acacia abyssinica and E. Camaldulensis, and 79% of fine root biomass for C. africana were concentrated at the upper soil profile to the depth of only 20 cm. The result suggest that E. camaldulensis is much more important species in carbon cycle, Nutrient cycle, and carbon sequestration. The depth wise reduction of fine root biomass in all of the three species indicates that soil moisture and organic matter are much more available at the upper soil profile and decreasing when the depth increases. Nutrient content and other traits of the fine roots must be studied further so as to use the data for the management of forest ecosystems or plantations of the selected species.