Analyzing Root-Shoot Junction Anatomy in Maize Under Drought Conditions

The xylem vessels are critical to plant water transport and management. They are the main means through which water is transported. Xylem anatomy, including length and area, is closely related to function. Four genotypes of maize with known differences in xylem phenotype were examined under well-watered and drought conditions. The root-shoot junctions were collected from individuals grown for 3 weeks in the greenhouse. Cross-sections of the roots were cut and imaged using laser ablation tomography.