Below-ground frontiers in trait-based plant ecology.

Contents1597I.1597II.1597III.1598IV.1598V.1600VI.1601VII.1601VIII.16011602References1602 Summary: Trait‐based approaches have led to significant advances in plant ecology, but are currently biased toward above‐ground traits. It is becoming clear that a stronger emphasis on below‐ground traits is needed to better predict future changes in plant biodiversity and their consequences for ecosystem functioning. Here I propose six ‘below‐ground frontiers’ in trait‐based plant ecology, with an emphasis on traits governing soil nutrient acquisition: redefining fine roots; quantifying root trait dimensionality; integrating mycorrhizas; broadening the suite of root traits; determining linkages between root traits and abiotic and biotic factors; and understanding ecosystem‐level consequences of root traits. Focusing research efforts along these frontiers should help to fulfil the promise of trait‐based ecology: enhanced predictive capacity across ecological scales. Editorial by Lennon & Dolan, 213: 1561. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]