XVI International Botanical Congess

Studies of the elevated CO2 and simulated N deposition on calcareous grasslands have revealed sedges to be exceptionally responsive to these anthropogenic changes in the atmosphere but the reasons for this have not been determined. One feature which distinguishes these sedges from co-occurring species is their production of unique, swollen and intensely hairy (dauciform) lateral roots and their lack of mycorrhizal infection. We hypothesize that dauciform roots may provide a superior strategy to mycorrhiza for obtaining phosphorus in these extremely P limited environments. This paper provides evidence of the functional significance of dauciform roots, their role in nutrient uptake and responses to elevated CO2 and nitrogen.