Spectral Eyes on Nature: Tracking Real-Time Physiological Dynamics in Plants

Abstract

This seminar introduces an imaging technology employing spectral reflectance to visualize plant physiological responses non-destructively. We are focusing on Photochemical Reflectance Index (PRI) imaging, which observes changes in plant photosynthesis from alternations in reflectance at 530 nm. This technique detects the dynamics of xanthophylls, crucial photosynthetic pigments. Xanthophylls are involved in a mechanism that dissipates excess energy as heat when plants are exposed to environmental stress under excess light, such as drought, high temperature, and chilling, which dynamics is a potential stress indicator in plants. Our recent achievements include the real-time detection of the environmental responses in plants. Hyperspectral cameras have enabled us to capture PRI signals across various scales, from agricultural fields to the microscopic level of single cells. Additionally, we are developing tiny plant sensors, applying reflective spectroscopy. These sensors, designed for attachment to the plant underside, facilitate remote and long-term monitoring via cloud storage. The seminar will show these measurement methods and introduce real-time observations of photosynthetic behavior in the field.