ABSTRACT
The global population is continuously growing, and agricultural practices will have to be adapted to match the rapidly increasing demand for food to ensure sustainability and survival (Godfray et al., 2010). This chapter discusses the use of crop modelling as a tool to explore adaptation options. Crop modelling is ‘a formal way to present mathematical algorithms that represent quantitative knowledge about how a crop grows in interaction with its environment’ (Asseng et al., 2014, p. 102). Crop models use dynamic simulations based on the principles of crop physiology, soil science and agro-meteorology (Loomis et al., 1979). Models often simulate crop development dynamics (phenology), biomass accumulation, yield, water use and nutrient uptake using daily solar radiation, maximum and minimum temperatures, rainfall, initial soil conditions, soil characteristics, cultivar characteristics and crop management.
