Linking micro-X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy and X-ray computed tomography with model simulation explains differences in nutrient gradients around roots of different types and ages.

ABSTRACT: Plant roots create chemical gradients within the rhizosphere, but little information exists on the effect of root properties on the distribution of chemical gradients. The research aim was to analyse and model the effects of root type and age, radial root geometry and root hairs on nutrient gradients in the rhizosphere. Using micro-X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy (μ-XRF) combined with X-ray computed tomography (X-ray CT), we analysed nutrient gradients around root segments with different diameters and ages of two Zea mays genotypes (wild-type and root hair defective mutant) growing in two substrates (loam and sand). Gradients of key nutrients were compared with gradients obtained by a process-based, radially symmetric 1D rhizosphere model. Results show that root hairs matter for nutrient u

SUBMITTER: Lippold E 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12018778 | biostudies-literature | 2025 May

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature