Forage Species Suitability Mapping for China Using Topographic, Climatic and Soils Spatial Data and Quantitative Plant Tolerances

摘要

Selecting plants adapted to the climatic and soil conditions of specific locations is essential for environmental protection and economic sustainability of agricultural and pastoral systems. This is particularly true for countries like China with a diversity of climates and soils and intended uses. Currently, proper species selection is difficult due to the absence of computer-based selection tools. Climate and soil GIS layers, matched with a matrix of plant characteristics through rules describing species tolerances would greatly improve the selection process. Better matching will reduce environmental hazards and economic risks associated with sub-optimal plant selection and performance. GIS-based climate and soil maps have been developed for China. A matrix of quantitative species tolerances has been developed for example forage species and used in combination with an internet map server that allows customized map creation. A web-based decision support system has been developed to provide current information and links to original data sources, supplementary materials, and selection strategies.