In the study, we observed changes in the structure and architecture of the root system of an economically important fodder plant - white lupine (Lupinus albus L.), under different levels of phosphorus and nitrogen deficiency in the nutrient solution. The plants were grown for 2 weeks in controlled environment of a growth chamber in a hydroponic system. Morphological changes between the treatments were determined using an optical scanner and specialized software for root system analysis. We measured differences in nitrogen levels (0%, 100%) and phosphorus levels (0%, 25%, and 100%) based on the averages of all measured parameters (root diameter, fresh and dry shoot mass, root dry mass, root-to-shoot ratio, number of forks and tips, root length, area and volume, relative chlorophyll content (SPAD), proportions of individual diameter classes, and the number of clusters of proteoid roots, expressed independently per surface, volume, and length unit). Statistical differences were found between all the measured parameters. At the full nitrogen dose, the plants had, on average, longer roots, with greater surface area and volume compared to nitrogen deficiency. There were more branching points and tips, greater shoot mass, and higher relative chlorophyll content in the leaves. Nitrogen deficiency stimulated the growth of medium-diameter roots. Phosphorus deficiency affected a reduced formation of thicker root diameter classes and an increased formation of thinner root diameter classes. Phosphorus played a key role in the formation of proteoid root clusters, and its deficiency stimulated their formation. The interaction between both factors was observed in the formation of proteoid roots and the density of forks and tips. The response of white lupine to phosphorus and nitrogen deficiency is significant and will become more important in the future as the population grows and the prices of mineral fertilizers rise. The adaptive systemic response of white lupine is of interest for crop production, breeding, and genetic engineering.
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