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Development of a novel semi-hydroponic phenotyping system for studying root architecture

journal contribution
posted on 2023-05-17, 04:07 authored by Chen, YL, Dunbabin, VM, Diggle, AJ, Siddique, KHM, Rengel, Z
A semi-hydroponic bin system was developed to provide an efficient phenotyping platform for studying root architecture. The system was designed to accommodate a large number of plants in a small area for screening genotypes. It was constructed using inexpensive and easily obtained materials: 240-L plastic mobile bins, clear acrylic panels covered with black calico cloth,and a controlled watering system. A screening experiment for root traits of 20 wild genotypes of narrow-leafed lupin (Lupinus angustifolius L.) evaluated the reliability and efficiency of the constructed bin system. Root architecture, root elongation rate and branching patterns were monitored for 6 weeks. Significant differences in both architectural and morphological traits were observed among tested genotypes, particularly for total root length, branch number, specific root length and branch density. Results demonstrated that the bin system was efficient in screening root traits in narrow-leafed lupin, allowing for rapid measurement of two-dimensional root architecture over time with minimal disturbance to plant growth and without destructive root sampling. The system permits mapping and digital measurement of dynamic growth of taproot and lateral roots. This phenotyping platform is a desirable tool for examining root architecture of deep root systems and large sets of plants in a relatively small space.

Funding

Australian Research Council

History

Publication title

Functional Plant Biology

Volume

38

Pagination

355-363

ISSN

1445-4408

Department/School

Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture (TIA)

Publisher

C S I R O Publishing

Place of publication

150 Oxford St, Po Box 1139, Collingwood, Australia, Victoria, 3066

Rights statement

Copyright © 2011 CSIRO

Repository Status

  • Restricted

Socio-economic Objectives

Lupins

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    University Of Tasmania

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