1. Incorporating biological functionality into crop models (QAAFI/UQ) Erik van Oosterom, Graeme Hammer

2. Central Paradigm after Messina et al. (2009) Integrating physiology and modelling with genetics into breeding programs Dissect – Understand and simplify complex traits Predict – Trait evaluation in TPE and EC to unravel G×E Detect – Inform phenotyping for QTL analysis Connect – Link QTL/genes to crop adaptation/processes

3. Trait dissection Tillering (sorghum) Component traits become model input parameters Phenotype of the complex trait becomes emergent consequence of model dynamics APSIM crop template Tiller number

4. Trait dissection Tillering (sorghum) APSIM crop template Tiller number Propensity to tiller Temp. Radiation Environment Genetics Leaf size LAR Genetics Carbon S/D balance Density Management

5. Tillering: Modelling effects on grain yield Yield consequences reflect trends in field data (eg Dalby)

6. Sunlit and shade photosynthesis Crop growth rate Farquhar and von Caemmerer model (biochemistry of photosynthesis) Trait dissection Photosynthesis CoE for translational photosynthesis Program 4 Linking leaf function and the field performance of crops RUE X

7. –Grain abortion (maize) Determined by silk and pollen characteristics in a cohort model –Root architecture (sorghum, wheat) Root angle can affect spatial and temporal water extraction patterns –Transpiration efficiency (maize, sorghum, wheat) Transpiration rates per unit leaf area under high VPD –Nitrogen dynamics (sorghum, maize) Organ demand depends on size Translocation rates depend on N content – High temperature tolerance (sorghum) Threshold temperature for pollen viability and seed set Tolerance to high temperature above the threshold Dissect - Understand and simply complex traits

8. Sorghum and maize in common platform Pearl millet currently being added Sorghum/maize/pearl millet platform to be incorporated into the PMF (Plant Modelling Framework) Wheat model currently being upgraded to improve some of the biological functionality and added to the PMF Development of a common modelling platform Common platform allows synergies across crops Phenotypic insights (trait dissection) Genotypic data (comparative genomics)