The DAA initiative, proudly integrates multi-scale modeling as a cornerstone of its vision. By coupling two or more process-based models, these multi scale representations provide insights into the comprehensive Genetic-Environment-Management (GEM) interactions that define agricultural ecosystems. These multi-scale modeling framework, encapsulating everything from intricate plant cell processes to vast ecosystem dynamics, function as the underpinnings of our cutting-edge approach towards sustainable agriculture.In crop modeling, the processes can vary from the micro to the macro level, both spatially and temporally. Specifically:

1. 🌾 Microsecond Scale: Capturing intricate plant cell processes that occur at lightning speed.
2. 🌍 Day-Night Cycles: Representing the diurnal rhythms of plants and their immediate environment.
3. 🌦️ Days to Years: Encompassing ecosystem dynamics that stretch over days to even years.

The act of connecting different scales in crop modeling holds critical significance. It aids in assessing agricultural strategies for climate change adaptation, ensuring food security, and promoting environmental sustainability. The intricate G × E × M interactions (Genetics, Environment, Management) profoundly affect crop development, growth, and yield. Given their complexity and nonlinear nature, they pose challenges for empirical experimental designs.

1. 🌾 Holistic Understanding: Integrates processes across scales for comprehensive DAA insights.
2. 🌍 Scenario Analysis: Enables hypothesis testing in varied and future environmental conditions.
3. 🌦️ Resource Optimization: Aids in strategy design for sustainable agriculture.
4. 💧 Bridging Gaps: Connects genetic, environmental, and management aspects in crop growth within the PhenoRob DAA ecosystem.

Our multi-scale modeling arsenal comprises advanced models fine-tuned by the experienced teams at the University of Bonn and Research Center Juelich. These models, which are integral to the PhenoRob DAA, range from understanding granular plant cell processes to analyzing broader agricultural dynamics.

1. 🌾 GRANAR and MECHA: Developed for cell-level processes and mechanical phenomena.
2. 🌍 CPLANTBOX: Target plant and organ scales, focusing on water transport and growth.
3. 🌦️ Simplace, AgroC, and TerrSysMP: Designed for crop and regional scales, they simulate growth patterns and ecological interactions.

Multi-scale modeling is achieved by effectively coupling standalone models at varying scales. The process of coupling refers to the harmonized exchange of information between at least two distinct models. Within the complex interplay of soil, plant, and atmosphere, coupling serves as a robust strategy to capture intricate interactions and dependencies. In essence, coupling amplifies the holistic representation of the crop system, enhancing both its comprehensibility and fidelity. Learn more