Optimizing root system architecture in biofuel crops for sustainable energy production and soil carbon sequestration.

Journal Article (Journal Article)

Root system architecture (RSA) describes the dynamic spatial configuration of different types and ages of roots in a plant, which allows adaptation to different environments. Modifications in RSA enhance agronomic traits in crops and have been implicated in soil organic carbon content. Together, these fundamental properties of RSA contribute to the net carbon balance and overall sustainability of biofuels. In this article, we will review recent data supporting carbon sequestration by biofuel crops, highlight current progress in studying RSA, and discuss future opportunities for optimizing RSA for biofuel production and soil carbon sequestration.

Full Text

Duke Authors

Cited Authors

  • To, JP; Zhu, J; Benfey, PN; Elich, T

Published Date

  • September 2010

Published In

Volume / Issue

  • 2 /

Start / End Page

  • 65 -

PubMed ID

  • 21173868

Pubmed Central ID

  • PMC2990534

Electronic International Standard Serial Number (EISSN)

  • 1757-594X

International Standard Serial Number (ISSN)

  • 1757-594X

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

  • 10.3410/b2-65

Language

  • eng