One notable feature of much of the literature on soil and root
partitioning is the absence of work done on non-forested ecosystems.
This bias toward forests neglects higher respiration rates generally
observed in grasslands as opposed to forests (Raich and Tufekcioglu
2000).
Linking root and soil respiration with other topics of recent
ecological importance may prove beneficial. For example, hydraulic lift
by deep-rooting plants in dry regions could improve soil moisture for
increased microbial decomposition.
There is potential for additional work examining possible responses
by and feedbacks to global soil respiration. Kirschbaum (2000) notes
that simple temperature increases will result in increased respiration;
however, he points out that complex interactions between soil moisture
(both in timing and severity) and plant growth confound predictions.
Similarly, it may be worth considering how climate change may change
root density and respiration rates. Borken et al. (1999) found no significant
reduction in respiration during a drought simulation
Plant and soil dynamics may also be influenced by increased
nitrogen inputs expected to continue. While nitrogen may enhance primary
production, it may also lead to higher rates of respiration or may disrupt
microbe communities in the soil.