Modeling the biomass production of the biofuel crop Miscanthus x giganteus, to understand and communicate benefits and risks in cultivation

Abstract

Bioenergy crop models predict harvestable biomass using known variables, and illustrate key parameters that determine the crop yield. We developed a model, using the systems software STELLA, to provide a conceptual representation of Miscanthus × giganteus crop system and understand various parameters and their influence on the growth and loss of harvestable biomass. Using data from four locations, we developed a model and used it to predict yields comparable to reported biomass production from Champaign, IL, thus validating the model structure. Sensitivity analyses of model variables suggested that solar radiation, rainfall, temperature, soil water holding capacity, solar energy interception and conversion efficiency, evapotranspiration, crop coefficient, irrigation and harvest date significantly influenced the predicted harvestable biomass. The flexible STELLA platform also allows the stakeholders to expand and modify the model to incorporate additional variables if required and ultimately enables informed decision-making for bioenergy crop production at any location.

Evaluation of Agricultural Production Systems Simulator as yield predictor of Panicum virgatum and Miscanthus x giganteus in several US environments

“…Parameterization of WINOWAC was also performed for Miscanthus (Miguez, ). Other examples of modelling growth/adaptation of these species include the use of the stella software (Pallipparambil et al ., ) to identify Ohio, Missouri, Arkansas and Illinois as suitable locations for Miscanthus , as well as to determine sensitive parameters for biomass production. In a recent study (Strullu et al ., ) the STICS crop‐soil model accurately predicted Miscanthus biomass production and environmental impacts in various environments in France and the UK.…”