Staked TAO (Root) is the practice of staking the Bittensor network’s native token, TAO, to the network’s root layer (commonly called “Subnet Zero”) so stakers receive a proportional share of emissions generated by the subnets in which their chosen validator participates. Rewards may be automatically converted into TAO (root claim), retained as subnet-specific tokens (alpha claim), or split selectively (hybrid), while the staked principal remains denominated in TAO. ^[1]​

Overview

Staked TAO (Root) refers to staking the native token TAO within the root layer of the Bittensor network, where returns are derived from emissions generated across multiple subnets. These emissions are distributed in the form of subnet tokens (“alpha”), a portion of which is allocated to root stakers based on a defined root proportion. Traditionally, these rewards are automatically converted into TAO and added back to the staked balance, a process known as “root claim.” Following updates introduced in 2025, reward distribution occurs at random intervals, typically every 1 to 2 days, rather than at fixed, short intervals. The updated model offers an alternative, the “alpha claim,” in which earned rewards are retained as subnet-specific tokens rather than converted to TAO. Under this approach, stakers accumulate small amounts of alpha across the subnets their validator participates in, while their original root stake remains unchanged. A hybrid option also exists, allowing selective conversion of some subnet rewards while retaining others as alpha. Root staking is generally structured to preserve the underlying TAO value, while the treatment of rewards determines whether returns remain in TAO or are exposed to subnet-level variability. ^[2]​

Features

​Staking on the root layer (“Subnet Zero”) of the Bittensor network allows participants to stake TAO directly to validators without converting it into subnet-specific tokens. The staked asset remains in TAO, and rewards are also distributed in TAO, making the process simpler than subnet-based staking. Staking and related actions incur a small fixed network fee, and moving stake between validators involves both unstaking and restaking costs. Returns are influenced by validator selection, as each validator has different commission rates and performance histories. Staked TAO contributes to earning emissions across all subnets in which the chosen validator participates.

​Validator fees are applied as a percentage of rewards before distribution to stakers, with each validator setting its own commission rate. After fees are deducted, the remaining emissions are allocated proportionally to stake contributions. Compared to subnet staking, root staking involves lower complexity and avoids exposure to token price fluctuations associated with subnet tokens. Subnet staking, by contrast, requires exchanging TAO for subnet-specific tokens and introduces greater variability in returns. Root staking is generally characterized by simpler mechanics and more stable reward structures, though it still depends on network conditions and validator performance. ^[4]