Genotype to phenotype modelling of phosphate acquisition and related biomass and yield traits of maize
Phosphate is an essential nutrient for plant growth. However, phosphate acquisition by crops can be problematic due to complex interacting biotic and abiotic processes that influence the availability of phosphate in soil, such as root activity, rhizosphere microflora and saprotrophs; and solubilisation, adsorption, fixation and occlusion processes (Hinsinger, 2001). Consequently, low plant-availability of phosphate is an important factor limiting crop yields in many parts of the world (Smit et al. 2009). Considering all these aspects for the design of phosphate improved cropping systems, requires a comprehensive modelling approach.
Our Vision
We will develop a model for the evaluation of a range of phosphate fertilisation and soil management strategies while considering different maize genotypes in order to identify the ideosystem (genetics * crop management + environment) that maximises plant phosphate acquisition. Based on genotype to phenotype modelling, superior combinations of plant genetics and management systems can be identified optimising PUE in maize-based cropping systems in different environments.
