Net Fine Root Carbon Production in Pinus densiflora, Pinus koraiensis, Larix leptolepis and Quercus acutissima Stands, Gongju area, Chungnam Province, Korea

This study was carried out to estimate annual carbon production by fine root in Pinus densiflora, Pinus koraiensis, Larix leptolepis and Quercus acutissima stands of Gongju redion, Korea. Soil samples were taken at 0-30cm, 30-60cm, and 60-90cm soil depths from April to November (monthly increment method) in 2007 using soil sampler. Fine root carbon biomass was higher at 0-30cm soil depth than in the other soil depths. Total fine root carbon biomass at 0-90cm soil depth was highest in Larix leptolespis stand among the four study stands. Net fine root carbon production (kg ha^<-1> yr^<-1>) in Pinus densiflora, Pinus koraiensis, Larix leptolepis and Quercus acutissima stands were 889kg, 2,266kg, 851kg, and 1,121kg at 0-30cm soil depth, respectively. Total net fine root carbon production (kg ha^<-1> yr^<-1>) was highest in Pinus koraiensis stand among the four study stands. Fine root turnover rates in the four stands were ranged from 0.59 to 2.63 at 0-30cm, 30-60cm, 60-90 cm soil depth.