Role of fine root in the plant-induced weathering of andesite and basalt for three crop species.

Abstract

BBased on the proximity of fine roots to rock is to weathering, we designed two types of hydroponic crop pots by using two types of mesh sized net. We did experiments with three crop species and two types of rock, separately. All plants accelerated in the release of elements. Basalt released more than andesite. Significant difference in the released amounts of elements between the coarse and fine net pots was observed for maize and soybean in andesite and basalt experiment, respectively. The results imply that weathering may be caused partially by the direct contact of fine roots with rock particles.