Exploring root system architecture and anatomical variability in alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) seedlings.

ABSTRACT:

Background

The growth of alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) is significantly hampered by drought and nutrient deficiencies. The identification of root architectural and anatomical characteristics holds paramount importance for the development of alfalfa genotypes with enhanced adaptation to adverse environmental conditions. In this study, we employed a visual rhizobox system to investigate the variability in root system architecture (including root depth, root length, root tips number, etc.), anatomical features (such as cortical traits, total stele area, number and area of vessel, etc.), as well as nitrogen and phosphorus uptake across 53 alfalfa genotypes during the seedling stage.

Results

Out of the 42 traits measured, 21 root traits, along with nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P)

SUBMITTER: Pan X 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10519072 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature