Geoscience Reference
In-Depth Information
were created. The DSSAT is a collection of independent pro-
grammes that operate together; crop simulation models are at
its centre. Databases describe weather, soil, experiment condi-
tions and measurements; and genotype information for applying
the models to different situations. Software helps users prepare
these databases and compare simulated results with observa-
tions to give them confidence in the models or to determine if
modifications are needed to improve accuracy (Uehara, 1989;
Jones et al., 2003). In addition, the programme contained in
DSSAT allows users to simulate options for crop management
over a number of years in order to assess the risks associated
with each option. DSSAT was first released in 1989 with its V
2.1; additional releases were made: V 3.0 in 1994, V 3.5 in 1989
and V 4.5 is the latest version, being used for forecasting. The
schematic diagram of the DSSAT model is shown in Figure 3.2.
DSSAT models and crops
The crop and models included in
DSSAT are as listed below.
CERES models for cereals
The CERES (Crop Estimation
through Resource and Environment Synthesis) family of crop
models included rice, wheat, barley, maize, sorghum and millet.
CROPGRO models for legumes
The CROPGRO (CROP
GROwth) family of crop models included soya bean, drybean,
peanut and chickpea.
Databases
Models
Applications
Weather
Validation/sensitivity
analysis
Crop models
DSSAT
user
interface
Soil
Support software
Seasonal strategy
analysis
Graphics
Genetics
Weather
Crop rotation
sequence analysis
Pests
Soil
Experiments
Experiments
Spatial analysis/GIS
linkage
Pests
Economics
Genetics
Economics
FIGURe 3.2
Schematic drawing of DSSAT components.
