Rhizoboxes for Root and Rhizosphere Studies

Rhizobox, Root box, root system development, root growth, rhizosphere imaging — Maize / Corn root system in rhizobox

VSI Rhizoboxes. Different designs and sizes are available to study roots and the rhizosphere. Rhizoboxes are also known as Root Boxes, Rhizotrons or RhizonBoxes.

The VSI Rhizobox design offers the flexibility to manufacture long-lasting root boxes according to your specific needs. For example, splitting the root compartment of rhizoboxes is a cost-effective way to double the number of replicates, since only negligible additional labour during set-up and no additional space is needed. Assembling the compartments with corrosion resistant screws (back and front plate detachable) facilitates the filling procedure and prolongs the usability. The flat surfaces allow for space optimised placement (e.g. important in growth chambers) and easy picture acquisition by flatbed scanners. Angled racks (40°), holding five rhizoboxes each are available. See Rhizonboxes if soil pore water sampling is part of your research project.

As rhizoboxes / rhizonboxes / rhizotrons and racks can be fully customized, please fill in one configuration form for each inquired design type. Send digital copies (scans, pictures if filled in per hand) to office@vienna-scientific.com for quoting (and potential manufacturing). To avoid misunderstandings, all subsequent design changes have to be confirmed in writing!

Rhizo(n)boxes are exclusively custom-made according to your specifications, thus please allow for sufficient production time and get in contact as early as possible.

VSi Rhizobox Configuration Form

VSI Rhizobox / Rhizonbox configuration form

Please fill in and save (or scan/take a photo of printouts); include additional sheets as required. Clearly number (#) all forms if you request quotes for several designs. Send to office@vienna-scientific.com for quoting (and as reference for potential manufacturing). Additional design changes require written confirmation!

VSI Rhizobox Config 2019v5.0b.pdf

Adobe Acrobat Document 754.9 KB

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Custom-Made Rhizobox Design

Please consider for your rhizobox design ...

Inner/outer dimensions (w x h x d) (according to species (size, growth rate) and experimental period
Material of front and back plates (transparent, opaque, etc.)
Detachability of front and back plates (lowered hex screws for easier scanning? wing nuts for easy hand operation during regular sampling?)
Split rhizobox design, with separating strip, to monitor two plant individuals per rhizobox?
Back plate perforation for soil pore water sampling with MicroRhizons ("Rhizonbox") and holes for insertion of Rhizon samplers from the side?
Bottom perforation, allowing for drainage?
Rack system to place rhizoboxes? Angled (how much?)?
Do you need to darken the transparent plate(s)?

Rhizoboxes - Design Examples

Three types of rhizoboxes, root boxes in size A4/letter

rhizobox, root box with front plate taken off

rust proof rustless non corroding interlocking system, rhizobox, root box

block outs for non-corroding interlocking system of rhizobox front plate, rhizobox, root box

Example picture rhizobox, BOKU student lab (corn roots)

Example picture, BOKU MSc student (Ulmus glabra roots)

rhizobox for agar culture with removable lid, autoclavable, sealed with Teflon membranes

Example picture rhizobox, BOKU student lab (corn roots, detail)

Example picture rhizobox, 2 sizes with racks

Example picture rhizobox, detail with rack

Example picture rhizobox, detail bottom holes for drainage

Example picture larger rhizoboxes in rack, front

Example picture larger rhizoboxes in rack

Example picture larger rhizoboxes in rack, side view

Example picture, rack of larger rhizoboxes

Images for illustration purposes only, design subject to change without notice