ADEL-wheat: A 3D architectural model of wheat development

Abstract

A 3D architectural model of winter wheat development is presented. The model simulates the kinetics of elongation of individual organs, together with their geometric shape. With the inclusion of two additional parameters, it was possible to model the development of tillers using the same parameter values as for the main stem. The duration of organ extension was found to be the same amongst phytomers, and the kinetics of extension of any organ could be simulated from its final length and two parameters. Finally, lengths of mature organs were found to follow simple functions of phytomer position. The resulting model simulates development of the whole plant with a small number of parameters, characterising the size and geometry of mature organs and the timing of collar appearance.