Problems and options in modelling fine-root biomass of single mature Norway spruce trees at given points from stand data

In a 75-year-old Norway spruce (Picea abies (L.) Karst.) stand, three different single-tree models were tested to predict the fine-root biomass of root samples. This approach is based on the assumption that the fine-root biomass at a given point determines the availability of belowground resources as, for example, soil water. All models assume a monotonously decreasing function describing the distribution of the fine-root biomass of a subject tree depending on the distance to the trunk of the tree. To the contrary, the models differ in the maximum distance from the stem where roots can be found. There were high correlations between the observed and the predicted fine-root biomasses for all models in a part of the stand where the trees are distributed less uniformly and where root biomasses are most heterogeneous. In a section with medium stand density, the model of diameter at breast height dependent root spread yields higher correlation coefficients compared with the fixed-distance approach of the two other models. Significant correlations between model predictions of root distributions and measured soil water potential supported the validity of the models. The results of the model estimations imply differences in the maximum distance of lateral root spread dependent on stand density.