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An Optimized Rhizobox Protocol to Visualize Root Growth and Responsiveness to Localized Nutrients

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Published on: October 22, 2018

Boron and the evolutionary development of roots.

Ulrich Kutschera¹, Karl J Niklas²

¹a Institute of Biology, University of Kassel, Heinrich-Plett-Strasse , Kassel , Germany.

Plant Signaling & Behavior

|July 11, 2017

Summary

Boron (B) is vital for vascular plant development, influencing lignified tissues and potentially the evolution of roots. Further research is needed on soil microbes

Keywords:

Boron epiphytic microbes evolution root development

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Area of Science:

Plant Biology
Evolutionary Biology
Biochemistry

Background:

Boron (B) is an essential micronutrient for vascular plants.
It plays a role in xylem development, lignin biosynthesis, and phytohormone signaling.
Boron influences the mechanical properties of intercellular pectins.

Purpose of the Study:

To review data supporting D. H. Lewis' 1980 hypothesis on Boron's role in vascular plant root evolution.
To present experimental results on Boron's role in root formation.
To describe the fossil record of root appearance.

Main Methods:

Review of existing literature on Boron and plant evolution.
Experimental comparison of root (vs. rhizoid) formation in sunflower and liverwort.
Analysis of fossil records for evidence of root emergence.

Main Results:

Experimental data support Boron's role in distinguishing roots from rhizoids.
The fossil record shows the emergence of roots coinciding with lignified tissues.
Boron's influence on pectin properties may have facilitated root evolution.

Conclusions:

Boron played a significant role in the evolution of lignified tissues and vascular plant roots.
Further research is needed to understand the interactive roles of soil microbes and Boron in root formation.