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Root and xylem anatomy varies with root length, root order, soil depth and environment in intermediate wheatgrass (Kernza®) and alfalfa

Journal Article · · Annals of Botany
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1093/aob/mcac058· OSTI ID:1979481
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Abstract Background and Aims

Deep roots (i.e. >1 m depth) are important for crops to access water when the topsoil is dry. Root anatomy and hydraulic conductance play important roles in the uptake of soil water, particularly water located deep in the soil. We investigated whether root and xylem anatomy vary as a function of root type, order and length, or with soil depth in roots of two deep-rooted perennial crops: intermediate wheatgrass [Thinopyrum intermedium (Kernza®)] and alfalfa (Medicago sativa). We linked the expression of these anatomical traits to the plants’ capacity to take up water from deep soil layers.

Methods

Using laser ablation tomography, we compared the roots of the two crops for cortical area, number and size of metaxylem vessels, and their estimated root axial hydraulic conductance (ERAHCe). The deepest roots investigated were located at soil depths of 2.25 and at 3.5 m in the field and in rhizoboxes, respectively. Anatomical differences were characterized along 1-m-long individual roots, among root types and orders, as well as between environmental conditions.

Key Results

For both crops, a decrease in the number and diameter, or both, of metaxylem vessels along individual root segments and with soil depth in the field resulted in a decrease in ERAHCe. Alfalfa, with a greater number of metaxylem vessels per root throughout the soil profile and, on average, a 4-fold greater ERAHCe, took up more water from the deep soil layers than intermediate wheatgrass. Root anatomical traits were significantly different across root types, classes and growth conditions.

Conclusions

Root anatomical traits are important tools for the selection of crops with enhanced exploitation of deep soil water. The development and breeding of perennial crops for improved subsoil exploitation will be aided by greater understanding of root phenotypes linked to deep root growth and activity.

Research Organization:
Pennsylvania State Univ., University Park, PA (United States)
Sponsoring Organization:
USDOE Advanced Research Projects Agency - Energy (ARPA-E)
DOE Contract Number:
AR0000821
OSTI ID:
1979481
Journal Information:
Annals of Botany, Journal Name: Annals of Botany Journal Issue: 3 Vol. 130; ISSN 0305-7364
Publisher:
Oxford University Press
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English

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