Bionote
Ixchel Hernandez Ochoa is a postdoc at the INRES Crop Science Group at the University of Bonn. She is currently part of the DFG Cluster of Excellence PhenoRob, Core project 5 “New Field Arrangements”. The main focus of her work is to combine field experimentation and agroecosystem modelling to optimize spatio-temporal crop diversification. The goal is to develop multi-functional agroecosystems with improved delivery of ecosystem services, crop productivity, and with more efficient use of resources. Besides, she works on the effects of fertilization on root growth and root architecture as well as on gaseous nitrate emissions.
Presentation Abstract
Around 50% of global land is used for agriculture, causing challenges related to environmental impacts. Crop diversification offers benefits like improved productivity, delivery of ecosystem services, and promotion of biodiversity. Understanding crop responses to soil heterogeneities can improve cropping system design. A simulation study at the patchCROP experiment found spatial variability was higher than temporal for most crops, the interactions between climate and soil conditions differed by crop and the choice of diversified crop rotations can significantly affect soil water seepage. With this information, we may be able to contribute to develop more sustainable cropping systems.
Co-Authors: Thomas Gaiser, Kathrin Grahmann, Anna Engels, Frank Ewert