Root Architecture Modeling and Visualization in Wheat

This paper aims to develop a root morphological model in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.), and the realistic visualization of root growth under different soil conditions in wheat. Based on the topology of the wheat root system, historical literature and experimental data, a root morphological model in wheat was developed preliminarily using thermal time as a driving factor, including sub-models of root emergence, root growth rate, and root axis curvature. Based on 3D visualization technology, a three-dimensional visualization model of the root axis in wheat was developed by using the platform of VC++.net and OpenGL library, including sub-models of geometry, texture mapping, and light rendering. Integrated the established root morphological model and the visualization model, the three-dimensional visualization of a root system in wheat under different soil conditions was realized. This study lays a foundation for further development of a visualization system for the whole wheat plant.