Leaf, Stem and Root Biomass of Artemisia Ordosica in the Semiarid Inland Dunes

Abstract

Previous research has established A. ordosica as the dominant shrub species in the Mu Us sandy grasslands of Northwestern China. To further confirm its dominance, we used the dominance index equation (RC+RD+RH)/3 and performed on-field data collection to calculate the actual dominance of A. ordoscia based on relative coverage, relative density, and relative height, compared to all other shrub and grass species within the ecosystem. The result confirmed A. ordosica’s dominant role, suggesting it plays a crucial role in maintaining the stability of the region's ecosystem.

To accurately estimate A. ordosica’s biomass is important, as ecosystem functions such as carbon and nutrient sequestration can be assessed, and the health, abiotic, and biotic change within the ecosystem could be closely monitored. By estimating biomass, researchers can also evaluate the sustainability of the ecosystem, and policymakers can make informed management decisions based on the data. Totally, the 30 individuals of A. ordosica with different canopy sizes were excavated, and their components including leaf, stem/branches (new branches versus old branches), and root (fine roots versus coarse roots) organs. The biomass estimation model was created using the least squares regression line of scatterplots. The scatterplot includes data on the canopy area and the compartment biomass of the excavated A. ordosica individual. All equations demonstrate strong, positive, correlation (r) values with the actual data and have P<0.001, meaning the biomass can be predicted by easily measured canopy area. This biomass estimation model enables quicker data collection, requiring only the canopy area of the plant species without the need to excavate, compartmentalize, and weigh individual plants.