A harmonised dataset for modelling select underutilised crops Across EU

Abstract

Whilst simulating crop performance in different environments can help fill the knowledge gap and improve the adoption of crops that are currently neglected and underutilised in conventional agrifood systems, lack of experimental data remains a barrier to widespread modelling of these crops. To date, no attempt has been made to collate sub-species crop data that are specifically suited for modelling underutilised crops. This article describes the first attempt to develop a database for crop modelling data with a focus on European underutilised crops. Following a pilot study to identify crops with the potential across the EU, a structured dataset of detailed experimental data was developed by analysing more than 500 agronomic studies that were published across European agroclimatic zones from 1972 to 2022. The dataset contains minimum information for calibrating basic crop models for any location in the EU provided that enough experimental and environmental data are available. More specifically, the database includes crop phenology, yield, management practices, geographic and pedo-climatic details of select underutilised and neglected species. The information underwent a curation procedure to ensure its quality. The collated database will be used in CropBASE, the global knowledge base for underutilised crops.

Keywords: Crop diversification; Crop modelling; Neglected and underutilised crops; Sustainable agriculture.

Fig. 1

Distribution of underutilised crops across EU with added Köppen climate classification .

Fig. 2

Comparison of the distribution of studies of underutilised crop species among countries, where A = Bosnia and Herzegovinia, B = Croatia, C = Republic of Belarus, D = Republic of Cyprus and E = Switzerland.

Fig. 3

Distribution of varieties/landraces per crop.

Fig. 4

Future development of dataset