Long-term effects of cutting tap roots ofPinus caribaea growing on infertile savanna soils

Summary

The content of elements in needles ofPinus caribaea trees growing upon infertile savanna soils was analysed at 3 and 5 years after the tap roots of a subset of trees had been severed. No significant differences were found between the content of elements in treated and control trees, nor were significant differences found in increments of diameter of the trees over 5 years. It is concluded that this organ plays no significant nutritional role in the trees on these soils, and that tree growth can be achieved exclusively from atmospheric nutrient accessions and exchangeable nutrient reserves in the topsoil.