Use of image analysis in the evaluation of radicular nodules in chickpeas

Abstract

The use of advanced computational systems facilitates the application of a wide range of statistical techniques, available in open-source format, to perform analyses of substantial complexity in biological systems, particularly in the field of plant biology. The aim of this study is to demonstrate the application of image analysis in the evaluation of root nodules in Cicer arietinum plants. The research was conducted in the field, where roots were collected, subjected to rigorous cleaning protocols and subsequently photographed under precisely controlled studio conditions. This photographic process was performed using equipment configured with meticulous parameter settings. Subsequently, image analyses were performed using the statistical software package, R. Parameters of interest were quantified, including metrics such as root area, nodule area, the proportional representation of nodules in relation to the total root mass and the absolute count of nodules present. A critical comparison between the proposed analytical methodology and conventional approaches evidenced a substantial improvement in efficiency, thus highlighting the robustness and validity of this analytical framework for the outlined research objectives. Therefore, the developed methodology has significant potential to facilitate accurate and comprehensive analyses of nodules and root systems, thus making a notable contribution to fostering a deeper understanding and exploration of plant-microorganism interactions. Furthermore, this methodological advancement has the potential to contribute to reducing operational costs and optimizing the time spent on such meticulous evaluative undertakings.