A Conceptual Framework for Multiscale Simulation of Carbon Transport, Transformation and Disposition in the Soil-Plant-Microbe Continuum
EMSL Project ID
50180
Abstract
This project, designed to serve as the focal element of the System Thrust of EMSL’s Strategic Science Area (SSA), is aimed at the development of an integrated multiscale modeling framework that accounts for top-down controls of environmental processes on biological responses at small scales, and for feedbacks of small small-scale biological processes on ecosystem-scale function. Development of such a framework cannot be accomplished using a “one size fits all” approach, but rather requires a complete understanding of the components of the aspirational modeling system and their multiprocess/multiscale linkages in order to prioritize development activities and customize multiscale simulation methods to specific component linkages. Accordingly, this FY18 SSA project will formulate a comprehensive conceptual model of organic carbon generation, transport, transformation, and disposition in plant-soil-microbe (rhizosphere) systems. We will publish this model in both a static format (journal article) and a dynamic format (web-based interactive document) for ongoing development of the conceptual model by the scientific community. The model will conceptualize the carbon cycle in the soil-plant-microbe system moving through intermediate carbon pools from inputs to outputs. Photosynthesis is the dominant input process, expressed through vegetative litter, root growth and decay, and root exudates. Organic carbon respiration to CO2 gas released to the atmosphere is the primary output. The intermediate processes are complex, multifaceted, and involve many linkages among different carbon pools. Rigorous identification of the component boxes of this conceptual model, to subsequently be represented in numerical models of varying complexity, is the first essential step toward the design of a mechanistically-based multiscale numerical model of this complex system. For each element identified in this conceptual model, we will develop a linked catalog of a) existing numerical models/codes, b) data types and sources, c) related literature, and d) identified gaps in knowledge, data or simulation capability. Finally, we will employ this conceptual model to identify and prioritize specific elements of a multiscale/multiprocess modeling framework to be used as case studies by the System Thrust FY18 satellite project. The conceptual model development activity proposed here will provide the necessary foundation to successfully integrate process understanding, experimental observations, and numerical models into a working framework that will truly enable translation of molecular understanding into system-level predictions. It will also, as is the overarching aim of the System Thrust, provide an integrative platform within which the entire SSA science portfolio can be organized as well as a rallying element for integrative science across the EMSL user and staff community.
Project Details
Start Date
2018-03-22
End Date
2018-09-30
Status
Closed
Released Data Link
Team
Principal Investigator
Team Members