A Novel High Throughput Root Phenotyping Protocol and StructureUsing Lemna Tec 3D

摘要

This study was aimed at designing and demonstrating utility of a novel and low-cost tool as an accessory to image root growth of rice seedling in automated Lemna Tec 3D Scanalyzer. The tool enabled with RFID chip, designed to hold at least three testtubes carried root system of seedlings of five rice genotypes grown in test-tubes containing in transparent medium. A total of 30 (5 varieties x 6 replications) test-tubes were prepared among which uncontaminated 15 capped test-tubes carrying seedlings of rice in three replications were used to characterize the root growth. Variability of roots existed and Bala genotype outperformed in root growth rate and total root area. Additional seven parameters were also tested for possible surrogates for root growth rate and total root area. These studies demonstrate that the tool developed as an accessory to imaging system can facilitate rapid root phenotyping. Also, this method can be employed to assess the genetic variation in responses to abiotic stresses such as drought that cause osmotic stress during early growth of crop plants. When combined with genotyping, this can also support discovery of useful genes associated with root system responses to osmotic stress.