Authors
Fisher, M.C.T.; Eissenstat, D.M.; Lynch, J.P.
Source
New Phytologist, Blackwell Science, Volume 153, Issue 1, UK, p.63-71 (2002)
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Abstract
The influence of phosphorus (P) availability on root lifespan in common bean ( Phaseolus vulgaris cv. Carioca) is reported here, as well as the patterns of root survivorship in relation to vegetative and reproductive development. Plants were grown in a glasshouse in a sand-culture system with varying P availability, and in a high-P field (Pennsylvania, USA) soil with greater biotic activity [date not given]. Root dynamics were assessed using a minirhizotron system. P limitation, which reduced plant growth by 90%, did not diminish root survivorship. At nonlimiting and limiting P, root survivorship was not synchronized closely with shoot development and senescence; a substantial portion of the roots were present and seemingly alive even beyond reproductive maturity. In field-grown beans and in beans under severe P limitation in sand culture, survivorship fell approx equal to 50%, but only after pod fill was nearly complete. Common bean does not exhibit programmed root senescence during and immediately following pod fill. Roots died after the shoot had undergone other senescence processes, such as leaf drop and pod dry-down. Under field conditions, soil organisms are likely to modulate the effects of phosphorus deficiency and pod fill on root death.
