SP7: RhizoUpscale

Biogeochemical modelling and upscaling

Summary:

Based on a literature review and results of field, laboratory and historic studies, in WP5 we aim to further develop the mechanistic biogeochemical LandscapeDNDC model to predict impacts of improved rhizosphere traits and functions on yields under current and future climates with higher frequency and intensity of extreme weather conditions at site and regional scale.

Main research questions:

• How do single and combined impacts of rhizosphere traits and functions impact stress tolerance and yields of wheat and maize under different soil and climate conditions?
• How to upscale from the root-system scale (dm-m) to field (m-ha) and regional scales (ha-km²)?
• What are impacts of most effective rhizosphere trait combinations on yields under current and future climates?
• Can biogeochemical ecosystem models be used to inform adaptation of future agricultural management practices and plant breeding schemes?

Objectives:

Within WP5 results from experimental field and laboratory studies (WP1-3) and data from historic records (WP4) will be used to further develop and test the representation of roots in the field scale LandscapeDNDC model. Particular foci will be on i) the functional balance of belowground C partitioning (RhizoCarbo), ii) the distribution and morphology of roots throughout the soil, iii) interactions with the soil microbiome (RhizoMicro), and iv) dependencies on environmental conditions, finally influencing plant water and nutrient uptake (RhizoWater and RhizoSoil) and yields (RhizoPerform and RhizoHistory).