Using modelling to optimise the structure and function of crop root systems for dryland agriculture. The crop root systems are poorly suited to harsh conditions in Australian agriculture, especially as climate is getting drier. Poor water-use efficiency lowers crop yields below the potential yield; moreover, unutilised water and nutrients contribute to environmental problems, eg salinity and eutrophication. This project will use our simulation model to develop computer-aided design of 3-D root s ....Using modelling to optimise the structure and function of crop root systems for dryland agriculture. The crop root systems are poorly suited to harsh conditions in Australian agriculture, especially as climate is getting drier. Poor water-use efficiency lowers crop yields below the potential yield; moreover, unutilised water and nutrients contribute to environmental problems, eg salinity and eutrophication. This project will use our simulation model to develop computer-aided design of 3-D root structure and function (water and nutrient uptake) tailored to particular environments. Modelling will also link suitable root traits to genetic markers in well-characterised lupin germplasm. The blueprint developed here will be adaptable to other crops. The project will enhance breeding for increased water- and nutrient-use efficiency.Read moreRead less
Enhancing long-term soil organic carbon sequestration. This project addresses National Research Priority One areas, restoration of land surfaces through sustainable land management practices and sequestration of carbon. The resulting data will be transferable to domestic and international sustainable agricultural and land rehabilitation applications. The project specifically addresses an area of global significance, the long-term, millennia rather than short-term sequestration of terrestrial car ....Enhancing long-term soil organic carbon sequestration. This project addresses National Research Priority One areas, restoration of land surfaces through sustainable land management practices and sequestration of carbon. The resulting data will be transferable to domestic and international sustainable agricultural and land rehabilitation applications. The project specifically addresses an area of global significance, the long-term, millennia rather than short-term sequestration of terrestrial carbon. There will be spin-off benefits including the provision of a formula for sustainable agriculture resources and localised employment opportunities, educational and financial incentives for farmers to improve on-farm soil health as well as health benefits from the reduction of atmospheric CO2.Read moreRead less
New strategies for reducing the concentrations of arsenic and cadmium in crop plants. The research is directed at reducing the concentrations in crops of cadmium and arsenic, two elements that accumulate in humans and can have a range of toxic effects. The results will have widespread implications for improving health in Australia, but are expected to have an even greater impact on populations in parts of Asia where contamination of soil and water by these elements is most severe. The project wi ....New strategies for reducing the concentrations of arsenic and cadmium in crop plants. The research is directed at reducing the concentrations in crops of cadmium and arsenic, two elements that accumulate in humans and can have a range of toxic effects. The results will have widespread implications for improving health in Australia, but are expected to have an even greater impact on populations in parts of Asia where contamination of soil and water by these elements is most severe. The project will train two junior scientists and foster scientific links with China. Read moreRead less