Principles of crop modelling and simulation: III. modeling of root growth and other belowground processes, limitations of the models, and the future of modeling in agriculture

Abstract

The first models of temporal variation of root systems appeared over 20 years ago. The complex architectural geometry of root systems; the wide range in size and diameter and the rapid growth and decomposition of finest roots; the different physiological activity of roots of different ages; the complex microbial processes occurring at the root-soil interface; the symbiotic relationships in the rhizosphere; the variable soil environment (physical, chemical and biological) in which roots develop are the challenges of quantifying the root growth. The models are not simple mechanisms to archive information in order to produce forecasts. Modeling represents a better way of synthesizing knowledge about different components of a system, summarizing data, and transferring research results to users.