An integrated method for quantifying root architecture of field-grown maize.

ABSTRACT:

Background and aims

A number of techniques have recently been developed for studying the root system architecture (RSA) of seedlings grown in various media. In contrast, methods for sampling and analysis of the RSA of field-grown plants, particularly for details of the lateral root components, are generally inadequate.

Methods

An integrated methodology was developed that includes a custom-made root-core sampling system for extracting intact root systems of individual maize plants, a combination of proprietary software and a novel program used for collecting individual RSA information, and software for visualizing the measured individual nodal root architecture.

Key results

Example experiments show that large root cores can be sampled, and topological and geometrical s

SUBMITTER: Wu J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4156117 | biostudies-literature | 2014 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature