Root hairs are the most important root trait for rhizosheath formation of barley (Hordeum vulgare), maize (Zea mays) and Lotus japonicus (Gifu)

Background and Aims Rhizosheaths are defined as the soil adhering to the root system after it is extracted from the ground. Root hairs and mucilage (root exudates) are key root traits involved in rhizosheath formation, but to better understand the mechanisms involved their relative contributions should be distinguished. Methods The ability of three species [barley (Hordeum vulgare), maize (Zea mays) and Lotus japonicus (Gifu)] to form a...