Simulating water lateral inflow and its contribution to spatial variations of rainfed wheat yields

Spatial variations of crop yields are commonly observed in typical rainfed systems worldwide. It is accepted that such likely to be associated, among other factors, with water spatial due lateral flows occurring fields undulating topography. However, some the main processes governing distribution as flow not entirely considered by most adopted simulation models. This brings uncertainty process yield at field-scale, especially under water-limited conditions. Although it expected movement determines yields, still unclear what net contribution inflows (LIF) In this sense, combining field experimentation, models (HYDRUS-1D and AquaCrop), use artificial neural networks, we assessed occurrence magnitude LIF, their impact on wheat Cordoba, Spain, over a 30-year period. Seasonal precipitation varied 30 years from 212.8 759.5 mm, cumulative LIF ranged 125 mm. The ratio seasonal divided 10.7% 38.9% years. potential showed relevant but highly irregular Despite inter-annual variability, Mediterranean conditions, caused simulated vary + 16% up downslope areas field. responses were average 383 kg grain (GY) ha ?1 , marginal productivity reached 24.6 ( ± 13.2) GY mm maximum responsiveness. Decision makers encouraged take into account when adjusting management different yielding zones within same benefit further advances in-season weather forecasting should coupled methodological approach one presented here. • Lateral topography investigated. was Simulated (within field) an occurrence. response averaged ha-1. mostly dependent year