New research has unearthed a stunning secret about plants: many dig far deeper into the Earth than we ever imagined—and this could be a hidden ally in the fight against climate change.
Key Points at a Glance
- Many plants form a second, deep layer of roots over 3 feet underground
- This deep rooting pattern may store carbon safer and longer than previously thought
- The study used data from NEON, extending observations far below traditional depths
- Bimodal root systems were found in nearly 20% of ecosystems examined
For decades, scientists have assumed that most plant roots reside near the surface, where they collect water and nutrients. But a new study published in Nature Communications turns that assumption on its head—literally. It reveals that many plants, from the tundra to the tropics, have developed a second, deeper root system stretching over a meter below the surface. And this discovery could rewrite our understanding of Earth’s natural carbon storage systems.
“Our current ecological observations and models typically stop at shallow depths,” says lead author Mingzhen Lu of NYU. “By not looking deep enough, we may have overlooked a natural carbon storage mechanism deep underground.”
The study leveraged data from the National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON), which samples soil as deep as 6.5 feet—far beyond the traditional 12-inch limit of most ecological studies. This expansive view uncovered that nearly 20% of surveyed ecosystems displayed “bimodal” root patterns: shallow roots for quick access, and a second, deeper layer likely aimed at tapping into hidden nutrient reserves.
This unexpected rooting behavior may be crucial for climate strategy. Carbon stored in deeper soil layers is less likely to be broken down by microbes—especially under harsher, more stable conditions—making it a more permanent sink for atmospheric CO₂. In an era when atmospheric carbon is at its highest in 800,000 years, every mechanism for locking it away matters.
“The current understanding of roots is literally too shallow,” Lu explains. “Aboveground, we have eagle vision—thanks to satellites and remote sensing. But belowground, we have mole vision.” The revelation of deep-rooted systems means scientists may need to rethink models of nutrient cycling, water use, and climate adaptation.
Co-author Avni Malhotra emphasized the complexity this introduces: “Deep plant roots may cause increased soil carbon storage in one condition or lead to losses in other conditions due to a stimulation of soil microbes.” It’s a double-edged shovel—but one that opens new scientific and ecological frontiers.
This breakthrough suggests that ecosystems may be more resilient—and more actively involved in carbon cycling—than previously believed. And it raises new questions: Which species have these deep root systems? How do they form? Can we plant or manage vegetation to maximize carbon sequestration?
Scientists from NYU, Columbia, Stanford, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, and others co-authored the study. Their unified call: look deeper. As Lu concludes, “These overlooked deep soil layers may hold critical keys for understanding and managing ecosystems in a rapidly changing climate.”
Source: NYU
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