The helical motions of roots are linked to avoidance of particle forces in soil

• DOI: 10.1111/nph.16312
• Publication Date: 2019-11-06T20:40:36Z
• Authors: Adalvan D. Martins; Felicity O'Callaghan; A. Glyn Bengough; Kenneth W. Loades; Moacir Pasqual; Evelyne Kolb; Lionel X. Dupuy
• Keywords: Gravitropism; Particle (ecology)

Summary Limitation to root growth results from forces required overcome soil resistance deformation. The variations in individual particle affects development and often deflects the trajectory. We have developed transparent optical projection tomography microscopy systems where measurements of trajectory can be acquired a granular medium at range confining pressures. image‐processing pipelines analyse patterns trajectories stochastic‐mechanical theory establish how deflections relate thickening root. Root compensates for increase mean but does not prevent 5% most extreme causing deflection. magnitude increases with pressure they assemble into helices conserved wavelength response linked gravitropism. study reveals mechanisms understanding mechanically impeding conditions provides insights relevant breeding drought‐resistant crops.