Plant science articles
Stomatal Conductance: Functions, Measurement, and Applications
Though a common plant function, much remains unknown about stomatal conductance, especially at larger ecosystem scales while its associated processes like photosynthesis and, to a lesser extent, transpiration, are largely well studied. This research gap is surprising considering that sophisticated tools exist to rapidly and accurately measure stomatal conductance in the field. Modern infrared gas… Continue reading…
How is Human Activity Altering Forest Canopy Dynamics?
Forest disturbance alters microclimate, including light quality and quantity, that can have a far-reaching influence on forest structure and composition. Species need different wavelengths or quality of light for germination. Modulation of light by the canopy influences understory growth. Edge effects favor early succession species. Forests nowadays face unprecedented levels of disturbance from human activity.… Continue reading…
10 Vital Minirhizotron Applications for Agricultural Research
Minirhizotrons are a recent addition to a scientist’s toolbox, providing information on underground dynamics. Scientists can explore the relationship between roots and shoots along with the cumulative effect on crop yield. Using minirhizotron systems improves our knowledge of root responses to the environment, fertilizers, irrigation, and tillage, enhancing crop water and nutrient use efficiency. Ten… Continue reading…
Using Minirhizotrons in Wetland Studies
Understanding underground carbon fluxes in wetlands has been challenging since the standard methods have primarily been destructive. Non-destructive minirhizotrons were tested as a possible solution to studying underground dynamics. Minirhizotron installation, anchorage, image capture and analysis, and data upscaling recommendations are made to meet the needs of the unique environment of wetlands. A Methodological Framework… Continue reading…
Transpiration, Evapotranspiration, and Leaf Area Index
Increasing evapotranspiration due to global warming is changing the climate. Yet global estimates of transpiration, its major component, are not definite. Global transpiration estimates vary due to different methodologies, approaches, and scales. Including field data in global-scale models is crucial for accurately determining transpiration. Leaf Area Index is an excellent proxy for calculating transpiration by… Continue reading…
5 Ways to Improve Water Use Efficiency
Improving water use efficiency, the ratio of yield to water supplied can boost food production for a growing population without additional use of limited water resources. Water use efficiency for food production can be improved at the farm or plant level. On farms, this can be achieved through optimized management. At the plant level, improvements… Continue reading…
WEBINAR RECORDING: SpectraVue Leaf Spectrometer Live Training
Learn More | Request a Quote | Schedule a Consultation Leaf spectral data is being used to understand vital plant stress attributes in crop optimization, forest productivity, and environmental research. Join Director of Applied Science Galen George for an in-depth, live training on the use and application of the CI-710s SpectraVue Leaf Spectrometer. We have designed this training to… Continue reading…
Testing the Effects of Light Quality on Red Lettuce
Health-conscious consumers increasingly demand nutritious, high-quality food, causing stakeholders to closely monitor the bio composition of food products. Phytochemicals with antioxidant properties are some of the most sought-after nutraceuticals. Phytochemical levels can be, in large part, determined by light quality, which is necessary for crop productivity. Therefore, a study wanted to find what effect light-filtering… Continue reading…
Precision Agriculture Policy & Adoption Outlook 2023
Precision agriculture is being branded as Agriculture 4 – the next revolution to make food production more profitable, sustainable, and environmentally friendly. Even though its adoption is uneven, the use of precision agriculture has been increasing consistently for the last several years. This article will review precision agriculture technologies, their adoption, and how precision agriculture… Continue reading…
LAI Modeling to Improve Kiwifruit Orchard Management
This recent study combines many firsts to guide the management of kiwifruit orchards through precision agriculture. By focusing on leaf area index, choosing a precise estimation tool, the CI-110 Plant Canopy Imager, and including important textural information, the scientists aimed to discover and improve model prediction for monitoring growth and yield estimation in kiwifruit orchards.… Continue reading…
