Transforming crop simulation models into gene-based models
Dynamic crop simulation models can be transformed into gene-based models by replacing an existing process module with a gene-based module for simulating the same process. Dynamic crop simulation models are tools that predict the phenotype (i.e. observable characteristics) of plants grown in specific environments. In these models, genotypic differences among cultivars are represented by empirical […]
Young Malian researchers gear up for grand challenges with crop modeling
Budding agricultural researchers are being trained in crop modeling to take on pressing and ever-present challenges of land, climate and food security. In a recent training program at ICRISAT-Mali, eight students learned to model agrosystems with DSSAT software, taking into account smallholder farming constraints. Crop modeling is a process that describes different stages of crop […]
Advancing crop growth models using genotype-specific parameters
Incorporating genotype-specific parameters and realistic trait physiology will advance crop growth models. Plant breeders face an urgent mission: of adapting crops to climate change and feeding an increased world population. Crop models can help breeders select cultivars and cultivar traits for different target environments. For instance, models can be used to evaluate traits (e.g., life […]
14th Virtual DSSAT Development Sprint
The 14th DSSAT Development Sprint was held from January 11-15, 2021 as a Virtual Meeting due to continuing Covid-19 Pandemic. The DSSAT Development Sprint was hosted by the Institute for Sustainable Food Systems and the Department of Agricultural & Biological Engineering of the University of Florida. One of the main goals of the DSSAT Development […]
Reuse, don’t lose, process-based models and components
A new system automatically transforms existing process-based crop models into different languages and simulation platforms. This new approach, described in in silico Plants, will improve the reproducibility, exchange and reuse of process-based crop models (PBM). PBM are increasingly implemented as autonomous components describing each biophysical process. According to lead author, Dr. Cyrille Ahmed Midingoyi, researcher […]
Crop modeling takeaways from the 2020 CGIAR Convention
This is one of a series of blogs written by our Youth in Data delegates who participated in the 2020 CGIAR Convention on Big Data in Agriculture. The global event was held virtually 19-23 October 2020. Feature photo: Alfonso Cortés / CIMMYT. During my experience as a Youth in Data 2020 delegate at the 2020 CGIAR […]
13th Virtual DSSAT Development Sprint
The 13th DSSAT Development Sprint was held from July 20-24, 2020 as a Virtual Meeting due to continuing Covid-19 Pandemic. The DSSAT Development Sprint was hosted by the Institute for Sustainable Food Systems and the Department of Agricultural & Biological Engineering of the University of Florida. One of the main goals of the DSSAT Development […]





