Mixing plant species in cropping systems: concepts, tools and models. A review

Malézieux Eric, Crozat Yves, Dupraz Christian, Laurans Marilyne, Makowski David, Ozier Lafontaine Harry, Rapidel Bruno, De Tourdonnet Stéphane, Valantin-Morison Muriel. 2009. Mixing plant species in cropping systems: concepts, tools and models. A review. Agronomy for Sustainable Development, 29 (1) : 43-62.

https://doi.org/10.1051/agro:2007057

Article de revue ; Article de revue à facteur d'impact

Version publiée - Anglais
Accès réservé aux personnels Cirad
Utilisation soumise à autorisation de l'auteur ou du Cirad.
document_543472.pdf
Télécharger (2MB)

Résumé : The evolution of natural ecosystems is controled by a high level of biodiversity, In sharp contrast, intensive agricultural systems involve monocultures associated with high input of chemical fertilisers and pesticides. Intensive agricultural systems have clearly negative impacts on soil and water quality and on biodiversity conservation. Alternatively, cropping systems based on carefully designed species mixtures reveal many potential advantages under various conditions, both in temperate and tropical agriculture. This article reviews those potential advantages by addressing the reasons for mixing plant species; the concepts and tools required for understanding and designing cropping systems with mixed species; and the ways of simulating multispecies cropping systems with models. Multispecies systems are diverse and may include annual and perennial crops on a gradient of complexity from 2 to n species. A literature survey shows potential advantages such as (1) higher overall productivity, (2) better control of pests and diseases, (3) enhanced ecological services and (4) greater economic profitability. Agronomic and ecological conceptual frameworks are examined for a clearer understanding of cropping systems, including the concepts of competition and facilitation, above- and belowground interactions and the types of biological interactions between species that enable better pest management in the system. After a review of existing models, future directions in modelling plant mixtures are proposed. We conclude on the need to enhance agricultural research on these multispecies systems, combining both agronomic and ecological concepts and tools.

Mots-clés Agrovoc : culture en mélange, agroforesterie, biodiversité, modèle végétal, compétition végétale, agroécosystème, espèce

Classification Agris : F08 - Systèmes et modes de culture

Champ stratégique Cirad : Axe 1 (2005-2013) - Intensification écologique

Auteurs et affiliations