Abstract

Fine roots are essential for plant growth and survival, and their functional traits play a crucial role in ecosystem processes. However, it remains unclear how fine-root functional traits respond to experimental warming. To address this knowledge gap, we conducted a meta-analysis using 53 studies that examined the effects of experimental warming on fine-root functional traits in woody plants.

Results

Our results showed that experimental warming significantly affected fine-root functional traits, including specific root length (SRL), root tissue density (RTD), root diameter (RD), root branching intensity (RBI), and root lifespan. Specifically, experimental warming significantly decreased SRL, RTD, and RD, but increased RBI and root lifespan.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that experimental warming can alter the fine-root functional traits of woody plants, which may have important implications for plant growth, ecosystem processes, and global change responses. Our results provide valuable insights into the mechanisms underlying the response of fine-root functional traits to warming and contribute to a better understanding of the potential impacts of climate change on forest ecosystems.