Plant Roots: Growth, Activity and Interaction with Soils brings together recent developments in techniques and an improved understanding of plant and soil interactions to present a comprehensive look at this important relationship, covering:
- Root response to, and modification of, soils
- Genetic control of roots’ responses to the environment
- Use of modern techniques in imaging, molecular biology and analytical chemistry
- Practical exploitation of root characters
Contents
1. Plants, Roots and the Soil
- The evolution of roots
- Functional interdependence of roots and shoots
- Roots and the soil
2. Roots and the Architecture of Root Systems
- Nomenclature and types of root
- Root structure
- Extension and branching
- The root tip
- Architecture of root systems
3. Development and Growth of Root Systems
- Measurement of root systems
- Root system development
- Size and distribution of root systems
- Root:shoot allocation of dry matter
- Root longevity and turnover
- Modelling of root systems
4. The Functioning Root System
- Root anchorage
- Water uptake
- Nutrient uptake
5. Roots and the Physico-Chemical Environment
- Temperature
- Gravity and other tropistic responses
- Soil mechanical properties
- Soil pores and their contents
- The soil chemical environment
- Atmospheric CO2 concentration
6. Roots and the Biological Environment
- Interactions of roots with soil organisms
- Symbiotic associations
- Root pathogens and parasitic associations
- Root herbivory by insects
7. The Rhizosphere and Root Modification of Soils
- Rhizodeposition
- Chemical changes affecting nutrient acquisition
- Physical changes in the rhizosphere
8. Genetic Control of Root System Properties
- Genotypic differences in root systems
- Genetics of root systems
- Breeding better root systems
9. Root Systems as Management Tools
- Optimal root systems and competition for resources
- Intercropping and agroforestry
- Crop rotations
- Phytoremediation
Index
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