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Schematic diagram (A) of the spectral reflectance measurement of roots using a hyperspectral camera on part of the nutrient film technique (NFT) hydroponic bed comprising a hydroponic panel (underside painted black), transparent polyolefin sheet, and transparent acryl board. A top-down photograph (B) of the transparent hydroponic bed without the hydroponic panel. The nutrient solution flowed between the hydroponic panel and the polyolefin sheet. The hyperspectral camera and two halogen lamps were positioned beneath the NFT bed, which was enveloped with a blackout curtain. |
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RGB image (left) and false-color image (right) showing age distribution across entire root systems in transparent hydroponics. |
Fukuoka, JAPAN - ASHS is pleased to announce the publication of a groundbreaking study in which researchers were able to successfully combine hyperspectral imaging and transparent bed hydroponics to observe and analyze the full growth dynamics of leafy vegetable root systems-without disturbing the natural growing environment.
The study, a collaborative effort of researchers from Kyushu University, Yamaguchi
University, and Kochi University, presents a novel, non-invasive approach to visualizing
root system development. By integrating hyperspectral imaging with transparent
hydroponic systems, the research provides unprecedented insights into root growth
patterns and age distribution, enhancing precision monitoring for hydroponic and
vertical farming applications.
The research team was able to detect subtle biochemical and structural changes in roots across different growth stages. The system not only preserves the natural growth environment but also provides valuable data for evaluating age distribution and overall root vitality.
According to the author: "The root system, often referred to as the "hidden part", is
extremely difficult to observe continuously under cultivation conditions, unlike the
above-ground parts of the plant. However, we realized that this breakthrough could be
achieved relatively easily by using transparent materials for the hydroponic beds.
Furthermore, introducing hyperspectral imaging will likely make it possible to acquire
deeper information about the root system that has previously been unknown."
This innovative technique has far-reaching implications for vertical farming, greenhouse cultivation, and sustainable agriculture. It provides growers and researchers with a powerful tool to better understand plant development, optimize resource use, and potentially breed crops with more robust root systems.
Dr. Yasutake and Ms. Jin led this research. Dr. Yasutake is an Associate Professor in
the Faculty of Agriculture at Kyushu University, and also serves as a Specially
Appointed Professor at the IoP Collaborative Creation Center, Kochi University. Ms. Jin
is a PhD student in the Graduate School of Bioresource and Bioenvironmental Sciences
at Kyushu University.
The full story can be found on the ASHS HortScience electronic journal website at: https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTSCI18327-24
Established in 1903, the American Society for Horticultural Science is recognized around the world as one of the most respected and influential professional societies for horticultural scientists. ASHS is committed to promoting and encouraging national and international interest in scientific research and education in all branches of horticulture.
Comprised of thousands of members worldwide, ASHS represents a broad cross-section of the horticultural community - scientists, educators, students, landscape and turf managers, government, extension agents and industry professionals. ASHS members focus on practices and problems in horticulture: breeding, propagation, production and management, harvesting, handling and storage, processing, marketing and use of horticultural plants and products. To learn more, visit ashs.org.
