Developing Applications with Partners

We develop the application to suit the needs of our partner. Below are some applications developed in conjunction with our research partners.

Root System Development

Example images of a single maize plant taken approximately 12 days apart beginning at four days following germination. this illustrates the capability to nondestructively image the same plant at several points in its development. This capability can drastically reduce the number of plants required to do a development study. Red/cyan glasses are required to see the stereo effect.

Characterize Intragenic vs. Intergenic Structural Traits

In the case of rice, two varieties can be compared by simply inspecting the images. The below images show two plants each of two different varieties. Red/cyan glasses are required to see the stereo effect.

Angular distribution of roots would be completely lost using the conventional wash and scan method.

Root System Classification

The distinctions between two different varieties may not be easy to see using the unaided eye. Two varieties of soybean were distinguished by plotting lateral root density against taproot length.

In this case, the prolific root variety is above the center line and the normal variety is below the center line. When the two varieties are crossed, this classification capability will be used to screen progeny for the prolific root characteristic.

Introduction of Stressors

A plant may be subjected to stress during part or all of its development. The polymeric growth substrates used by Phenotype Screening Corporation contain no nutrients, moisture, or pests of any kind. The Plant Scientist has total control over nutrient and moisture delivery to the plant. Pests may be introduced and plant response monitored.

When subjected to iron deficiency Maize displays a chlorosis in the interveinal areas.

A soybean subjected to drought stress.

This pest was found growing in the root system of a poplar cutting started in our substrate material. It is believed to have hatched from an insect egg previously deposited on the poplar cutting.

How We work with Partners