Parameterization of the AquaCrop model for simulating table grapes growth and water productivity in an arid region of Mexico

Currently, the AquaCrop model has been widely tested for many fruit/grain crops; root and tuber leafy vegetables, or forage crops, but is restricted to annual herbaceous species, while deciduous crops have received less if no attention. In this context, study aims test first time ability of simulate canopy cover (CC), actual evapotranspiration (ETa), total soil water content (TWC), biomass (B) fruit yield (FY) table grapes vineyards (Vitis vinifera L., cvs. Perlette Superior) at Costa de Hermosillo, Sonora in Northwest Mexico. Observed weather physical parameters, with measured crop parameters from an experiment conducted during 2005 were used develop climate, input files calibrating model. While collected data 2006 growing season validate The adequately simulated CC, ETa TWC 2006. Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) between observed 5.18%, 0.46 mm/day 10.11 mm 2005, 8.82%, 0.84 9.1 2006, respectively. good accuracy simulations by confirmed additional statistical like coefficient determination (R2), Bias (MBE), Willmott’s index agreement (d) Nash–Sutcliffe Efficiency (NSE). For B FY simulations, results showed that correctly reproduced NRMSE value 8.8%. estimated average (14.56 t/ha) both seasons are range potential (14–18 irrigated Hermosillo northwest After validation model, it was evaluate irrigation scheduling farmer as well assess productivity computed ratio production use. that, recommended about 547 509 mm, which half applied (1006 929 mm) This large difference, represents approximately 54% 57% supply, lost through deep percolation could be saved without vegetation suffering stress maintaining same yield. high loss affects significantly (WP), decreases 3.22 1.74 kg/m3 we consider transpiration (WPTr), sum Percolation (WPETa+Pr) WP computations, Consequently, can operational tool decision makers growers improve management. crucial importance arid semi-arid regions where becoming increasingly scarce.