Spatial patterns and drivers of root turnover in grassland ecosystems in China

Root turnover rate is a key indicator of ecosystem functions and services. It is also a core parameter for estimating net primary productivity and carbon sequestration potential. However, few studies have examined the patterns and drivers of root turnover at regional and global scales, especially for the widely distributed grassland ecosystems in China. Our objective is to determine: 1) the spatial patterns of root turnover rate for grassland ecosystems in China; and 2) the mechanisms and relative contributions of abiotic and biotic factors driving the root turnover process.