Despite its obvious importance for the whole plant, until recently our knowledge of the root apparatus was very limited, mostly due to the inadequacy of the techniques available. Recent advances in the visualization and measurement of roots have resulted in significant progress in our understanding of root architecture, growth and behaviour.

Higher Plants: Structural Diversity of Roots.- Electrical Impedance Spectroscopy and Roots.- Multi Electrode Arrays (MEAs) and the Electrical Network of the Roots.- The Vibrating Probe Technique in the Study of Root Physiology Under Stress.- The Use of Planar Optodes in Root Studies for Quantitative Imaging.- Applications of Confocal Microscopy in the Study of Root Apparatus.- High-Throughput Quantification of Root Growth.- Flat Optical Scanner Method and Root Dynamics.- 3D Reconstruction and Dynamic Modeling of Root Architecture in situ.- Geophysical Imaging Techniques.- Multi electrode Resistivity Imaging.- Using Ground-Penetrating Radar to Detect Tree Roots and Estimate Biomass.- Root Structure: in situ Studies Through Sap Flow Research.- Root Function: in situ Studies Through Sap Flow Research.- Fine Root Dynamics and Root Respiration.- Biases and Errors Associated with Different Root Production Methods and Their Effects on Field Estimates of Belowground Net Primary Production.- Minirhizotrons in Modern Root Studies.- Fine Root Turnover.

From the reviews:“This book describes some remarkable methods, mostly of recent development, by which roots can be rendered more accessible, and measurable, than normally allowed by nature. Split into two sections covering lab and field applications, Measuring Roots: An Updated Approach describes a range of imaging and sensor techniques. … Examples of the kind of information that each technique can generate are presented in abundant images, many in colour. Anyone studying roots will find something interesting in this multi-author volume … .” (David Robinson, Experimental Agriculture, Vol. 48 (3), 2012)