Agro-ecological Zoning for Crop Suitability using the AquaCrop Model in the Arid Regions of Khuzestan Province, Iran

Climate and weather largely determine the amount and mode of human performance and function in each sector, especially agriculture. However, obtaining agricultural information based on regional climate data can be time-consuming and expensive. Zoning can facilitate access to this information on a wide scale. This issue is particularly essential in areas with water deficit conditions in Iran, and the predominantly arid status of Khuzestan province. Camelina (Camelina sativa L.) is a rich source of oil and omega-3 fatty acids. Its unique properties include low water requirement and tolerance to drought, pests, and diseases. The purpose of this study was to apply a simulation strategy using the AquaCrop modeling software to evaluate the effects of various environmental factors on camelina yield. Also, it was aimed to determine the best locations for cultivating this plant using agro-ecological zoning (AEZ) and introduce the plant to Khuzestan province. In this study, the AquaCrop model was used for simulation to estimate the yield potential of camelina plants. It employed weather data to demonstrate how Khuzestan’s water deficit condition can affect camelina growth. Before using the model to simulate different factors, the research procedure involved model calibration and verification for the camelina genotype in the province. The findings resulted in plant zoning. A zoning map for camelina cultivation was generated to reveal three zones in terms of camelina yield potential, i.e., very suitable, moderately suitable, and unsuitable. The very suitable zone had a long-term average simulated yield potential of over 1800 kg/ha, encompassing the cities of Omidiyeh and Baghmalek. The moderately suitable zone had a long-term average yield potential of 1700–1800 kg/ha and included the cities of Izeh, Dezful, and Shushtar. The unsuitable zone had a long-term average simulated potential yield between 1600–1700 kg/ha, and included the cities of Ahvaz, Behbahan, Khorramshahr, Dasht Azadegan, Ramshir, Ramhormoz, and Shush.