Research
A study led by Grazyna Bochenek and Tessa Pocock of Heliospectra explores the fascinating range of responses in Arabidopsis thaliana accessions to low levels of far-red LED light.
Introduction
Far-Red (R:FR) light affects plant phenology and structure. Low R:FR, sensed by phytochromes, triggers shade avoidance responses like stem elongation, reduced branching, and early flowering. This response can be modulated by blue or green light interaction. The optimal R:FR for plant growth in artificial settings is understudied, and ecotypes may vary in spectral light responses. Our study aims to analyze the flowering and growth of popular Arabidopsis thaliana accessions under decreasing R:FR LED lighting and compare them with traditional light sources.
Conclusions
- It is possible to grow healthy Arabidopsis under LED lights.
- Shade avoidance responses seems to be linearly proportional to R:FR ratio.
- FR absence delayed flower development, especially in late-blooming Landsberg accessions, suggesting low FR levels for them.
- FR absence reduces apical dominance, resulting in increased vegetative growth and expected higher reproduction.
- Accessions may need diverse light conditions for best growth, considering R:FR, green, and blue levels.
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