Leaf and Canopy Photosynthesis Models for Cocksfoot (Dactylis gomerata) Grown in a Silvopastoral System – A case study pf plant physiology and agronomy

PERI P.L.

DUNKEN

Lugar: Buenos Aires; Año: 2005 p. 319

987-02-1263-8

This book provides an account of the prediction of pasture dry matter production was based firstly on the creation of an integrated leaf photosynthesis model. This model extended our knowledge of pasture growth prediction in silvopastoral systems because the integrated relationships between shade limitation in fluctuating light regimes and other environmental (temperature, nitrogen and water stress) and management (regrowth duration) factors affecting photosynthetic rate of cocksfoot leaves have not been defined. The canopy photosynthesis model proposed in this book provides a powerful and valuable tool for understanding and predicting the pasture understorey dry matter production in silvopastoral systems. To date, net canopy photosynthesis models have been used for different crops and for grasslands under full sunlight regimes. This power to predict the effects of changes in dry matter production may also have immediate application in pasture management or in helping agronomists to improve practices in silvopastoral systems. Prediction of pasture production on a farm basis is an important part of feed planing. Feed profiling for appropriate stocking rate, feed budgets for seasonal planning and grazing plans to achieve desired intakes and rotation length need an accurate assessment of dry matter production. The use of this model may provide different strategies for farmers. Also, it is possible to simulate the potential increase in dry matter production (or the equivalent of animal performance) from N fertiliser or irrigation interacting with shade in silvopastoral systems. The book is intended for students of ecology and agriculture as a ‘casebook’ example of a plant model in silvopastoral systems. It will also be of value to agronomists, modellers, plant physiologists, and plant ecologist. I hope that this book contributes to understand part of the complexity in silvopastoral systems through integration of knowledge.