Microscopic analysis of fungicide impact on plant cuticle

Overview

This research examines the interaction between fungicides and the plant cuticle, particularly focusing on whether fungicides can cause degradation or micro-lesions in the leaf surface. By applying fungicides to wheat and soybean leaves, the study aims to observe absorption patterns and potential damage at a microscopic level, thus providing insights into how these chemicals affect plant anatomy.

Technical specifications

Key features:

• Utilizes microscopy to evaluate the effect of fungicides on plant cuticles
• Focuses on both contact and systemic fungicides to determine absorption routes (cuticular or stomatal)
• Examines potential damage to epicuticular wax, epidermis, and mesophyll cells
• Applies fungicides as droplets to monitor changes over a two-week period

Technology readiness level

This study is at Technology Readiness Level 4, indicating that it involves testing in a lab environment to validate the findings and assess the fungicide interactions with plant structures.