ci-602 Archives - Page 2 of 6

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…

How Wildfire Affects Tree Physiology

Wildfire effects on trees depend on fireline intensity and residence time and can occur from heat transfer or smoke. To understand how this process unfolds, we dive deep into the study of how wildfire affects tree physiology. Wildfire effects can be first-order or second-order and are evaluated based on carbon and water transport and are… Continue reading…

Fine Root Biomass Dynamics in Brackish Marsh Vegetation

In this article, we delve into a pivotal study conducted in the unique environment of a cool-temperate brackish marsh. The research, titled “Estimation of fine root biomass using a minirhizotron technique among three vegetation types in a cool-temperate brackish marsh,” offers crucial insights into the complex world beneath our feet – the intricate and often… Continue reading…

The Root Traits Reducing Landslide Susceptibility

Stabilization of slope hillsides is one of the crucial ecosystem functions of roots. Roots modify mechanical and hydrological soil properties to reduce landslide susceptibility, which is one of the main benefits of root traits reducing landslide susceptibility. Roots reinforce soil, provide structural support, deepen anchoring, and help to dry soils quickly after rains. Several underlying… Continue reading…

Root Systems and Resilience: Exploring the Minirhizotron’s Role in the Root2Res Project

We are thrilled to share this insightful video produced by Arvalis, which explores the critical role of root systems in addressing climate change. Utilizing our CI-600 Minirhizotron system, Arvalis has conducted pioneering research that delves into the heart of plant production. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone involved in this project, from the researchers… Continue reading…

How Rootstocks Affect Graft Hydraulic Balance

Rootstocks of different genotypes have varying hydraulic conductance. Rootstock’s hydraulic conductivity will influence a scion’s water relations. Rootstocks influence a scion’s hydraulic conductance through its root system size and vigor, hydraulic signaling, and direct signaling. Dwarfing and drought tolerance are the two impacts of a rootstock’s hydraulic conductance on grafted trees. Grafting scions to rootstocks… Continue reading…