Relative yield decomposition: A method for understanding the behaviour of complex crop models

The relative yield decomposition method is complementary to other model analysis methods like sensitivity analysis or multiple model simulations. We show that it could be applied to some widely used crop models (e.g. AQUACROP, CERES, CROPGRO, CROPSYST, EPIC, SIRIUS, SUCROS). The relative yield decomposition method appears as a powerful and generic tool to analyse the behaviour of complex crop models that can help to improve the formulation of the models, or even to study specific plant traits or crop processes when applied to a model accurate enough.