Research Progress in Crop Root Biology and Nitrogen Uptake and Use, with Emphasis on Cereal Crops

Abstract

The biological characteristics of crop roots are closely related to the efficient utilization of nitrogen and have become a research hotspot in agricultural cultivation and breeding in recent years. The root system and root microbiota play a crucial role in both the basic and the plastic growth and development of plants in response to external environmental changes. Nitrogen is an indispensable nutrient element for crop growth, and the efficient utilization of nitrogen is the key to achieving the high yield and quality of crops and establishing environmentally friendly agricultural production. The nitrogen absorbed and utilized by rice mainly enters the aboveground part of the plant through the root system from within the soil. This process is explored from the perspective of root biology (root morphology, physiological and biochemical characteristics, root growth and development process and regulation, rhizosphere microorganisms, and their symbiotic systems), which is in line with the directions of “less investment, increased production, environmental protection, and sustainable development” in China. Based on the research status in this field at present, this article explored the interaction mechanism between crop root biology and nitrogen absorption and utilization, and looks forward to the future research directions for root biology. This study provides a theoretical basis for reducing nitrogen fertilizer application, optimizing nitrogen-efficient cultivation management techniques, and selecting nitrogen-efficient varieties.

Effects of Nitrogen Forms on Root Morphology and Nitrogen Accumulation in Pinus tabuliformis carr. Seedlings under Exponential Fertilization

“…The development of the root system directly affects the vitality of the root system, which in turn affects the absorption and utilization of nitrogen by plants and affects the accumulation of dry matter. The total length, root surface area, total volume, average diameter, root tips, and specific root length of plant root morphology indicators can directly reflect the changes in plant root morphology and indirectly prove the strength of root absorption and nutrient transport capacity [18][19][20]. The change in root morphology will affect the ability of plant roots to absorb and transport nutrients, the specific root length can reflect the efficiency of root nutrient absorption to a certain extent [21,22], and root tissue density and average diameter reflect the potential absorption capacity of the root system.…”

Transcriptomic profiling and discovery of key transcription factors involved in adventitious roots formation from root cuttings of mulberry

“…However, the generation and quality of roots remain major challenges. Quickly forming mature roots in cutting seedlings is currently an urgent issue to address [ 31 ].…”