Posted: March 2, 2020
Technology enables visualization of crop roots.
A novel use of a Penn State-created custom laser system allows researchers to see how soil organisms affect plant roots. The discovery has implications for future breeding of more resilient and productive crops.
"This research shows how we can use laser ablation tomography to visualize the anatomy of roots from several crop species, and see how soil organisms such as fungi, herbivorous nematodes, and insects interact with these roots in three dimensions," said Jonathan Lynch, Distinguished Professor of Plant Science.
--Jeff Mulhollem
Latest Issue
Features
Building the Hive
Entomologist Christina Grozinger broadens her research directions and collaborations after discovering the paramount importance of climate change on pollinator health.
Waste Not, Want Not
Food waste affects more than Americans' wallets; it also has implications for their health and the environment.
Solving the Puzzle
Scientists in the college are researching "climate-smart" practices to help position farmers for success in a changing climate.
