Sieve size effects on root length and biomass measurements of maize (Zea mays) and Grevillea robusta

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of different mesh sizes on the recovery of root length and biomass and to determine whether the degree of recovery was influenced by plant species and sample location. Sieves of 2.0, 1.0, 0.5 and 0.25 mm (4.0, 1.0, 0.25 and 0.06 mm2) mesh sizes were used to recover and measure the root length and biomass of Zea mays L. (maize) at 0-15 cm and 30-45 cm depths and of Grevillea robusta A. Cunn. ex R. Br. (grevillea) at the same depths 1.0 m and 4.5 m from a line of grevillea trees. At 0-15 cm, the coarser sieves (sum collected with 2.0 and 1.0 mm sieves) recovered approximately 80% of the total root biomass measured, but only 60% of the ro..