Evaluation of the CERES-wheat model in Ahvaz condition

Abstract

In order to calibrate and validate the CERES-wheat model, two experiments were carried out at Agricultural and Natural Resources Research Center of Khouzestan during 1382-83 and 1383-84 growing seasons. In addition, we used results of experiments, which were performed in previous years at this Research Center. The values of root mean square error (RMSE) for anthesis and maturity dates, grain yield and biomass production were 2.5d, 5d, 640 kg/ha and 460 kg/ha, respectively. These RMSE values were less than 10 percent of observed data means. The results indicated that the CERES-wheat model can satisfactorily predict phonological stages, grain yield and biomass of wheat. Then calibrated and validated CERES-wheat model can apply to research purposes in Ahvaz conditions.