First published in 1987 this book looks at root development and
functions. Besides affecting the development of roots directly, the
physical environment also influences the organisms associated with roots
and thus affects their function. The papers presented in this volume pay
equal attention to root development and root function in relation to the
whole range of environmental factors including temperature, light,
water, aeration, gravity and the mechanical strength of the soil.
Consideration is also given to the effects of some of these factors on
mycorrhizae and nitrogen-fixing bacteria. The final chapter reviews some
of the main themes raised in the volume and indicates the way that
research at the cellular and tissue levels may progress in the future.