Abstract Detail

Physiology

Robertson, Daniel Jordan [1], Julias, Margaret [2], Cook, Douglas [2].

Geometric and Material Effects of Crowding Stress in Maize.

Substantial increases in maize production have been achieved in the past 50 years through the development of varieties that are tolerant of crowding stress. Unfortunately, stalk lodging (breakage of the stalk prior to harvest) is positively correlated with crowding stress. To investigate the structural effects of crowding stress, 2 replicates of 5 commercial varieties of maize were sown at 5 planting densities in 2 locations. A sample of 1000 stalks were analyzed via micro-CT scanning followed by mechanical testing (bending strength). Geometric and material effects were quantified and investigated. It was observed that increased crowding stress resulted in a decrease in cross-sectional diameter, rind thickness and stalk strength. However, tissue density and stalk eccentricity was observed to increase with planting density. Test revealed that the area moment of inertia of the stalk was highly predictive of stalk strength. In particular, area moment of inertia accounted for over 70% of the observed variation in strength. Future varieties of maize could be improved by breeding for increased area moment of inertia in the presence of crowding stress.

1 - New York University - Abu Dhabi, Mechanical Engineering, P.O. BOX 129188, Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi, N/A, NA, UAE
2 - New York University - Abu Dhabi, Mechanical Engineering, P.O. Box 129188, Abu Dhabi, NA, UAE

Keywords:
maize
Corn
biomechanics
Engineering
lodging.

Presentation Type: Oral Paper
Session: 9, Physiology
Location: 104/Savannah International Trade and Convention Center
Date: Monday, August 1st, 2016
Time: 2:15 PM
Number: 9004
Abstract ID:657
Candidate for Awards:None