Details for Exploiting the functionality of root systems for dry, saline, and nutrient deficient environments in a changing climate

Vadez V, Krishnamurthy L, Kashiwagi JW, Kholova J, Devi JM, Sharma KK, Bhatnagar-Mathur P, Hoisington DA, Hash CT, Bidinger FR, and Keatinge JDH (2007). Exploiting the functionality of root systems for dry, saline, and nutrient deficient environments in a changing climate.  Journal of SAT Agricultural Research 4(1): 64pp. (Special Symposium edition).

Increasing episodes of drought, lack of sufficient nutrients, exposure to toxic minerals, and soil compaction are just a few examples of the environmental constraints that the roots are exposed to during plant growth. Understanding how roots respond to these stresses is crucial for improving crop production under such conditions. Yet, investigating roots is a very difficult task and, therefore, very little is known about the precise role that the roots play in contributing to plant adaptation to hostile environments.