Root grafts matter for inter-tree water exchange - a quantification of water translocation between root grafted mangrove trees using field data and model-based indications.

Our individual-tree modelling study is a first theoretical attempt to quantify root graft-mediated water exchange between trees. Our findings indicate that functional root grafts represent a vector of hydraulic redistribution, helping to maintain the water balance of grafted trees. This non-invasive approach can serve as a basis for designing empirical studies to better understand the role of grafted root interaction networks on a broader scale.