Latest roots
What is Root Architecture?
The root system architecture is defined using root morphological, topological, and geometric parameters. Two classification systems developed by Yen et al. (1987) and Fitter et al. (1991) are widely used. Several other classifications for root architecture also exist. Root system forms vary between and within species and are based on the plant’s soil conditions at… Continue reading…
Additional reading
How Minirhizotrons for Nematode Detection Improve Root Health Monitoring
Early studies used minirhizotron to understand how nematode-roots interaction impacts yield. Minirhizotrons have also been used to quantify nematode damage and cultivar selection. Minirhizotrons can show symptoms like root swelling and root trait changes at infection sites. Root studies have increased in number recently due to novel data collection techniques, such as imaging through minirhizotron… Continue reading…
Understanding Fine Root Dynamics: Key Insights and Methodologies
Fine roots have a diameter of 0.1–2 mm and are essential for nutrient acquisition for individual plants and carbon and nutrient cycling for ecosystems. Research shows fine roots are not a single group; root order determines form, anatomy, physiology, and function. Fine root age is another significant factor that influences functioning and dynamics. Though fine… Continue reading…
How Does the Rhizosphere Effect Influence Plant Growth and Soil Health?
The rhizosphere is the soil surrounding the plant root and soil interface. Root exudates, controlled by plant species, functional type, root traits, and biomes, can determine the biology, physics, and chemistry of the rhizosphere effect. The rhizosphere effect can enhance nutrient availability and defense at the plant level; carbon and nutrient cycling and possible bioremedial… Continue reading…
Advances in the Measurement of Root Turnover with Minirhizotron Technology
Root turnover rates are complex to measure as growth and death co-occur in plants. Minirhizotron is a standard method for estimating root turnover as it is non-destructive, rapid, and accurate. One challenge in the widespread use of minirhizotrons for root turnover is the lack of analysis methods to directly convert root scans to turnover estimation.… Continue reading…
What We Learned About Roots in 2023
Most studies in 2023 focused on root responses to agricultural practices to improve yield using fewer resources. Research into the basic science of roots and the influence of biotic and abiotic factors are the second significant areas of study. Fine roots are a particular area of focus, given their importance in nutrient and water uptake… Continue reading…
Minirhizotron Systems for Root Disease Detection
Root diseases are a significant issue in reducing crop yields globally. The damage and symptoms caused by root diseases change morphology and growth dynamics that images and scans can detect. Minirhizotron systems can detect a wide range of root changes reflecting various levels of root disease severity, providing a novel detection method. Root diseases are… Continue reading…
