Abstract
In order to study the nutrient and water uptake of rootsin situ, we need a quantitative three-dimensional dynamic model of the root system architecture.
The present model takes into account current observations on the morphogenesis of the maize root system. It describes the root system as a set of root axes, characterised by their orders and their inter-node of origin. The evolution of the simulated pattern is achieved by three processes, occuring at each time step: emission of new primary root axes from the shoot, growth and branching of existing root axes. The elongation of an axis depends on its order, inter-node and local growing conditions. Branches appear acropetally at a specified distance from the apex and from former branches, along ranks facing xylem poles, with a branching angle specific to their order and inter-node.
From the three-dimensional branched patterns simulated by the model, various outputs, such as root profiles or cross-section maps can be computed, compared to observed data and used as inputs in uptake models. A number of examples of such possible outputs are presented.
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Pagès, L., Jordan, M.O. & Picard, D. A simulation model of the three-dimensional architecture of the maize root system. Plant Soil 119, 147–154 (1989). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02370279
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02370279