Latest articles
Selecting Instruments for Teaching vs Research Labs: Key Differences
Choosing the right tools for a laboratory depends heavily on whether the space is designed for instruction or for active research. While both environments may study the same biological processes, their priorities differ. Teaching labs focus on clarity, durability, and repeatable demonstrations. Research labs demand flexibility, data depth, and field readiness. Understanding these differences is… Continue reading…
Multi‑Crop Studies: Choosing Instruments that Adapt Across Species
Multi-crop research instruments are essential when studies span cereals, horticultural crops, perennials, and native vegetation. The challenge is not learning new physiology for every species. It is finding tools that adjust to differences in leaf size, canopy structure, root architecture, and stress response without forcing changes to the experimental design. In multi-crop trials, flexibility and… Continue reading…
Future-Proofing Your Plant Science Instrument Investment: Modular, Upgradeable, and Open Platforms
Investing in future-proof plant science instruments is no longer just about measurement accuracy. Researchers now expect tools that adapt as projects evolve, funding cycles change, and new methods emerge. A system that locks users into fixed hardware or closed software quickly becomes a liability. Modular design, upgradeable components, and open data workflows are what separate… Continue reading…
Using the CI‑110 to Monitor Forest Canopy Recovery After Wildfire
Forest canopy recovery is one of the clearest indicators of ecosystem resilience following wildfire. Researchers, land managers, and restoration ecologists all rely on accurate canopy metrics to understand how quickly vegetation structure and function return after disturbance. Measuring forest canopy recovery consistently across time and space has always been a challenge, especially in rugged or… Continue reading…
Assessing Root Growth in Cover Crops Using the CI‑600 In‑Situ Root Imager
Assessing root growth in cover crops is central to understanding how these systems influence soil structure, nutrient cycling, and long-term field performance. While aboveground biomass is easy to observe, the real agronomic value of cover crops often lies below the surface. Root depth, density, and turnover drive water infiltration, carbon inputs, and nitrogen capture. The… Continue reading…
Comparing the Usability Between CID Bio-Science’s CI-600 Root Imager and an Inexpensive Endoscope
In the evolving field of agriculture, our tools can significantly influence the outcomes of our research and farming practices. Recently, a comparative study was undertaken to analyze the usability of the CID Bio-Science’s CI-600 Root Imager against a more budget-friendly option, the Depstech ds450 endoscope. Here, we delve into the findings presented in a poster… Continue reading…
A Comprehensive Glossary of Plant Science Terms: Delving into the World of Botanical Research
Welcome to the fascinating world of plant science! This comprehensive glossary overviews essential plant research, physiology, and horticulture terms. Whether you’re a student, researcher, or plant enthusiast, understanding these terms will deepen your knowledge and appreciation of plants’ diverse and complex lives. Explore the glossary to discover the mechanisms behind plant growth, reproduction, adaptation, and… 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…
CI-202 Portable Laser Leaf Area Meter Live Training
Learn More | Request a Quote | Schedule a Consultation Leaf area data is being used to understand vital plant responses in forestry, agronomy, and environmental research. Join Application Scientist Eric Munoz for an in-depth, live training on the use and application of the CI-202 Portable Laser Leaf Area Meter. We have designed this training to take… Continue reading…
