Revisiting old assumptions and developing new paradigms informed by robust data and trait-based perspectives

Old questions are new again as we revisit basic assumptions about fine roots and their roles belowground. Using the newly-developed Fine-Root Ecology Database (FRED) and novel analyses, we assess patterns of root trait variation and root trait relationships at local to global scales with the goal of understanding how belowground plant strategies vary across species, plant functional types, and biomes. Informed by bigger, better data we are well on our way to updating old paradigms and shining new light on the once hidden function of fine roots belowground.