Evaluation of FAO AquaCrop Model for ability to simulate attainable yields and water use for field tomatoes grown under deficit irrigation in Harare, Zimbabwe

Crop simulation models have an important role in evaluating irrigation management strategies for improving agricultural water use. The aim of this study was to evaluate the AquaCrop model ability simulate use and tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) fruit yields under deficit conditions. A fieldexperiment conducted at Thornpark, University Zimbabwe Research site over four seasons (2014 2017). data collected yield were used run performance predicting efficiency yield. Four treatments defined relation 100% crop requirement (ETc) simulated: T1 ETc; T2 80% T3 60% ETc T4 50% ETc. satisfactory, with a good correlation between simulated observed soil content (SWC) (FY). All statistical indicators (The Normalised Root Mean Square Error (R2), (RMSE), Nush Sutcliffe Model Efficiency (EF), Pearson Correlation Coefficient (r), Willmott’s Index Agreement (d)) compare predicted parameters, showed performance; example EF values 0.91 SWC, (r) 0.95 SWC FY 2.79 2.39 metric tonnes ha-1 results. results that consistent measured, corresponding coefficients determination (R2) 0.93. revealed AquaCropisable seasonal requirements appreciable degree. However, it must be pointed out calibration suffered from lack measured on progress canopy cover, which is parameter developing model. obtained can effectively simulating production and, therefore, as decision-making tool tomatoes Zimbabwe.