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Temperature sensing by primary roots of maize.
1MSU-DOE Plant Research Laboratory, Michigan State University, East Lansing 48824.
Plant Physiology
|January 1, 1990
Summary
Maize roots can sense temperature gradients, not just gravity. This study shows primary roots of Zea mays L. reorient in response to thermal cues, indicating a novel sensory mechanism.
Area of Science:
- Plant biology
- Plant physiology
- Biophysics
Background:
- Plant roots typically grow downwards, following gravity (gravitropism).
- Environmental factors like temperature and humidity can influence plant growth and development.
- Understanding root sensory mechanisms is crucial for predicting plant behavior in varying environments.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate if primary roots of Zea mays L. (maize) can sense and respond to thermal gradients.
- To differentiate the effect of temperature gradients from simple temperature or humidity changes on root orientation.
Main Methods:
- Maize seedlings were grown on agar plates under controlled temperature (26°C).
- A thermal gradient was applied perpendicular to the gravity vector.
- Root reorientation and curvature were measured and analyzed.
Main Results:
- Maize primary roots exhibited significant reorientation when exposed to a thermal gradient.
- The observed root curvature could not be solely explained by temperature or humidity effects on root elongation.
- Root growth direction changed in response to the thermal stimulus.
Conclusions:
- Primary roots of maize possess the ability to sense temperature gradients.
- This thermal sensing is independent of, or in addition to, gravitropism.
- Maize roots exhibit a novel thermotropic response, sensing temperature gradients for directional growth.