Effect of Soil Temperature On Root and Shoot Biomass Partitioning in Maize.

Biomass partitioning between roots and shoots in maize (Zea mays L.) has been studied by numerous researchers. However, these studies are generally conducted in greenhouse or growth chamber settings without dedicated controls for soil temperature. Under field conditions a vertical temperature gradient in the soil is common. This study explores root and shoot biomass partitioning in soil with controlled vertical temperature gradients similar to those found in a field setting. Three temperature treatments have been implemented representing different temperature gradients that may be observed in field settings in a given year. A fourth treatment of constant temperature was included to represent conditions commonly used in greenhouse/growth chamber experiments. Results to date indicate a significant difference in root-shoot biomass partitioning between treatments. In addition, changes in root architecture in response to different temperature gradient treatments are apparent.  Further studies are needed to elucidate how these responses compare to observations under field conditions and what the implications are with respect to root functions such as water and nutrient uptake.