Plant science in the age of simulation intelligence.

Journal: Frontiers in plant science
Published Date:

Abstract

Historically, plant and crop sciences have been quantitative fields that intensively use measurements and modeling. Traditionally, researchers choose between two dominant modeling approaches: mechanistic plant growth models or data-driven, statistical methodologies. At the intersection of both paradigms, a novel approach referred to as "", has emerged as a powerful tool for comprehending and controlling complex systems, including plants and crops. This work explores the transformative potential for the plant science community of the nine simulation intelligence motifs, from understanding molecular plant processes to optimizing greenhouse control. Many of these concepts, such as surrogate models and agent-based modeling, have gained prominence in plant and crop sciences. In contrast, some motifs, such as open-ended optimization or program synthesis, still need to be explored further. The motifs of simulation intelligence can potentially revolutionize breeding and precision farming towards more sustainable food production.

Authors

  • Michiel Stock
    KERMIT and Biobix, Department of Data Analysis and Mathematical Modelling, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.
  • Olivier Pieters
    IDLAB-AIRO, Ghent University, imec, Ghent, Belgium.
  • Tom De Swaef
    Plant Sciences Unit, Flanders Research Institute for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, Melle, Belgium.
  • Francis Wyffels
    IDLAB-AIRO, Ghent University, imec, Ghent, Belgium.

Keywords

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