Eco-evolutionary agriculture: a study in crop rotations

Abstract

Since its origins, thousands of years ago, agriculture has been challenged by the presence of evolving plant pathogens. In response, current practices have started relying on computational tools to design efficient prospective planning, but further efforts for multi-criteria assessment are needed. Here, we present a methodology for developing cultivation strategies optimal for control or eradication of pathogens. This approach can integrate both, traditionally used criteria in crop rotations and the analysis of host-pathogen coevolution systems where hosts are artificially selected. Our analysis shows that prospective planning can maximise cash yield in the long run by investing consecutively in soil quality during initial sea-sons. Importantly, rational application of crop rotation patterns can minimise yield loss in infected fields, despite the evolution of pathogen virulence. Our results provide strategies for optimal resource investment for increased food production and lead to further insights into minimisation of pesticide use in a society demanding efficient agriculture.