Root phenotyping and root water uptake calculation using soil water contents measured in a winter wheat field

• DOI: 10.1016/j.agwat.2023.108607
• Publication Date: 2023-11-25T22:55:57Z
• Authors: Zhongdong Huang; Xiaoxian Zhang; Rhys W. Ashton; Malcom J. Hawkesford; W. Richard Whalley
• Keywords: Soil horizon; DNS root zone; Silt

Non-destructive phenotyping of roots and measurement root water uptake from different soil layers in the field are vital for improving management facilitating development drought-resistant crop varieties, but difficult because their opaqueness. As a result, indirect methods using easy-to-measure variables such as content have been used alternatives. However, inherent errors could undermine robustness reliability these methods. This paper proposes new method to bridge this knowledge gap by profiles measured at two time points calculate root-length density. It is based on Richards' equation treating between random unknown numbers; distributions calculated Bayesian framework, solved Markov Chain Monte Carlo method. We applied 39 winter wheat lines grown silt-clay loam field. Soil profile first point each plot served initial condition, second was target match model calculating average density points. The results show that contents fall within 95% confidence interval contents. lead uncertainties all lines, decrease with depth. Although types agronomic were same varies considerably, some more capable subsoil than others. Generally, densities agree well, albeit degree agreement lines. While focuses methodology applies one growth stage spanning month only, consistent indicates robust can be other crops cultivated conditions. Given growing interest traits enhance use efficiency, proposed has important implications understanding prerequisite achieve crucial target.