WP2

The objective: WP 2 is aimed to characterising the performances of RAS (typology from WP1) in terms of productivity and provision of regulating ecosystem services, and identifying the eco-physiological traits to be targeted by breeding programs (WP3).

In WP 2, there will be the modelling of various interactions that occur at the RAS. This includes exploring more data about Agronomic performances of rubber, namely growth and yield that associated species. Then explore the eco-physiological traits data (LAI, canopy structure, root architecture, LUE, WUE, NUE). This is followed by exploring data on the Soil functioning and soil ecosystem services assessments and epidemiological monitoring (rubber and associated crop). It is hoped that all of these elements will have mutually supportive interactions so that optimal RAS can be obtained and provide benefits to smallholders. If there are environmental constraints, both biotic and abiotic, they can be taken into consideration for activities in WP 3.

The model used is the Biofunctool model, consisting of structure maintenance, carbon transformation, nutrient cycling, and perennial add-on. Besides, there are several indicators in this model that can be used as a reference, namely low-tech indicators, in-field indicators, and cost-effective indicators. To determine the integration of eco-physiological and ecosystem services knowledge and data from monocropping and rubber-based agroforestry systems, we use the Wanulcas or similar crop model.