Abstract
Spatial variation is a fundamental characteristic of agriculture, but crop scientists have largely ignored it, particularly at levels beyond the field scale. This thesis provides examples of analysis of spatial variation over larger areas. It contributes to our knowledge of the potato crop and its wild relatives, and to methodological progress in the use of geographic information in crop science. Part I deals with management of genetic resources. Methods that can be used to improve data quality in biological collection databases, and to assess the presence of spatial biases are discussed. The spatial distribution of wild potato species is analyzed, and the value of geographic, ecological, and taxonomic factors to predict the presence of frost tolerance in wild potatoes is studied. Part II deals with aspects of agro-ecological zoning approaches for research management. First, gobal potato distribution is described and analyzed. This is followed by a constraint-specific agro-ecological zoning study for potato late blight; a study on the potential impact of frost resistant potatoes; and an assessment of the effect of climate change on global potato production. In the final chapter, research needs and challenges to the further use of GIS in crop science are discussed.
| Original language | English |
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| Qualification | Doctor of Philosophy |
| Awarding Institution |
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| Supervisors/Advisors |
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| Award date | 24 Sept 2002 |
| Place of Publication | S.l. |
| Print ISBNs | 9789058087195 |
| DOIs | |
| Publication status | Published - 24 Sept 2002 |
Keywords
- solanum tuberosum
- potatoes
- spatial variation
- zoning
- plant genetic resources
- gene banks
- phytophthora infestans
- geographical information systems
- cold tolerance
- simulation models
- climatic change
- crop production
- agroecology
