The 4D Plant builds on previous work at Nottingham on the reconstruction of 3D models of plant shoots from multiple images, and the use of the resulting static models to assess the effect of plant canopy architecture on photosynthetic activity. Plants, however, are rarely still. They sway and deform in light to moderate wind on a daily basis, sometimes continually. In recent work we found that movement has a strong effect on light levels within the canopy, with strong implications for photosynthesis.
This project will develop the part-based visual tracking and enhanced 3D reconstruction methods needed to measure and model canopy movement and dynamic photosynthesis in rice and wheat populations. The new 4D models will inform an experimental programme investigating the relationship between movement, photosynthetic properties and plant mechanical properties.
Funding Information
The 4D Plant is supported by a grant from the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council