Non-destructive detection of plant roots based on magnetic resonance imaging technolog

Three-dimensional (3-D) root architecture plays an important role in the nutrition absorption for crops. Taking the roots of corn, soybean, and eggplant as study objects, magnetic resonance imaging technology (MRI) technique was used to acquire 3-D architectures of these roots in situ. Various factors affecting the process of MRI were discussed, such as growth medium, root type, and three-dimensional reconstruction methods. Advantages and disadvantages of MRI as a rapid and non-invasive technique for the root architecture research were also discussed. The results show the feasibility of applying MRI technique for the acquisition of 3-D root architectures of crops. This study will be helpful for the further quantitative description and analysis of 3-D root architecture of crops using MRI technique.