Using modelling to optimise the structure and function of crop root systems for dryland agriculture

作物的根系不太适应澳大利亚农业的严酷条件，特别是在气候变得越来越干燥的情况下。水利用效率低会使作物产量低于潜在产量；此外，未利用的水和养分会造成环境问题，如盐碱化和富营养化。这个项目将使用我们的模拟模型来开发针对特定环境量身定做的三维根系结构和功能(水分和养分吸收)的计算机辅助设计。建模还将把合适的根部特征与特征良好的羽扇豆种质中的遗传标记联系起来。这里制定的蓝图将适用于其他作物。该项目将加强育种，以提高水和养分的利用效率。

The crop root systems are poorly suited to harsh conditions in Australian agriculture, especially as climate is getting drier. Poor water-use efficiency lowers crop yields below the potential yield; moreover, unutilised water and nutrients contribute to environmental problems, eg salinity and eutrophication. This project will use our simulation model to develop computer-aided design of 3-D root structure and function (water and nutrient uptake) tailored to particular environments. Modelling will also link suitable root traits to genetic markers in well-characterised lupin germplasm. The blueprint developed here will be adaptable to other crops. The project will enhance breeding for increased water- and nutrient-use efficiency.