Modelling, databases and the P submodel

This paper provides a brief overview of computer-simulation decision-support systems, and describes the data necessary for their generation and validation, their role in modern agricultural research and their potential utility for researchers and growers. Data from field experiments in Venezuela and Thailand were used to test the P submodel within DSSAT (Decision Support Systems for Agrotechnology Transfer), and close agreements in the maize grain yields were obtained between measured and simulated numbers for various P treatments including phosphate rocks. (author)