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Mechanics of root elongation and the effects of 3,5-diiodo-4-hydroxybenzoic acid (DIHB)

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Summary

This paper reports the results of two series of experiments. In the first the effects of DIHB on the rate of root elongation were compared on unstressed roots and on roots stressed by mechanical impedance and by inadequate levels of aeration. Barley plants were grown in beds of small glass spheres through which nutrient solution was circulated. Mechanical impedance of 25 kPa was applied by subjecting the beds to a confining pressure. Inadequate aeration was obtained by reducing the oxygen concentration in the nutrient solution to 5%.

The second series examined possible effects of DIHB on the elastic modulus of root tips of wheat and pea. Elastic modulus gives an indication of the behaviour of roots in structured soil where penetration of peds can be limited by the buckling of root tips. The elastic modulus was measured in experiments of the static cantilever type on roots previously immersed in solutions of polyethylene glycol of different osmotic potential. Elastic modulus measurements can also detect any changes in turgor pressure and wilting characteristics of roots and can therefore help to identify the mechanisms of action of DIHB.

DIHB caused increases in root elongation relative to controls in all cases: 26±5.7% in unstressed roots, 14±6.4% in mechanically impeded roots and 54±9.8% in roots growing in 5% oxygen. DIHB had no effect on the elastic modulus, osmotic or turgor pressure of the roots. It is concluded that DIHB acts by modifying the cell wall extensibility factor.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Rothamsted Experimental Station, AL5 2JQ, Harpenden, Herts, UK

    M. J. Goss

  2. Waite Agricultural Research Institute, The University of Adelaide, 5064, Glen Osmond, South Australia

    A. R. Dexter

  3. ICI GPPD, Woolmead House East, GU9 7UB, Woolmean Walk, Farnham, UK

    M. Evans

Authors
  1. M. J. Goss
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  2. A. R. Dexter
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  3. M. Evans
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Goss, M.J., Dexter, A.R. & Evans, M. Mechanics of root elongation and the effects of 3,5-diiodo-4-hydroxybenzoic acid (DIHB). Plant Soil 99, 211–218 (1987). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02370868

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02370868

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