Photosynthetic model for simulation of maize productivity under high temperature and CO2 conditions

Abstract

The objective of this work was to build a simulation model in order to study the effects of weather conditions on photosynthesis and grain yield. The model compiled was based on biochemical reaction processes, being using experimental data for the calibration model. The results of the photosynthetic rates simulated for CO₂concentrations of 380 ppm and 700 ppm were similar. Regarding the dry matter yield, there was a 5% increase when the simulation was made with 700 ppm. In terms of increasing air temperature, it was observed that the photosynthetic rate increased substantially, reaching a limit at which no further significant gains were detected. For productivity, the results were positive in the simulations with increases of up to 2 °C. However, when the simulation made to the scenario with higher temperatures, the plant responded negatively due to increased respiratory rates and reduced crop cycle, which consequently resulted in less time for growth and development.