An Evaluation of Dryland Ulluco Cultivation Yields in the Face of Climate Change Scenarios in the Central Andes of Peru by Using the AquaCrop Model

Round 1

Reviewer 1 Report

Comments and Suggestions for Authors

Dear Authors! My suggestions:

1) In Introduction add that ulluco is an important source of carbohydrates, proteins and vitamins (line 39).

2) Why did you choose Canario variety for your investigation? Is this variety resistant or sensitive to abiotic stresses (line 103)? What do you know about its sensitivity to biotic stresses? 

3) I did not understand figures 6-8. What do CCism and CCobs mean? Describe more about these data in Results . 

 

Author Response

Dear reviewer,

Thanks for your comments, please see the attachment for responses and the updated manuscript.

Author Response File: Author Response.pdf

Reviewer 2 Report

Comments and Suggestions for Authors

The manuscript presents an evaluation study of dryland ulluco cultivation yields facing different climate change scenarios in the Peruvian central Andes by using the AquaCrop model. Considering that it is important to analyze crop behavior facing the climate change, especially for the extreme events, to establish adaptation strategies according to the different regional conditions, I think that the manuscript presents interesting conclusions from the research objectives have been achieved to an extent. Overall, the manuscript is worthy of publication to an extent. However, I have some concerns that should be addressed before the paper could be published.

1.      In the Abstract part, it is better for the authors to show the novelty of the manuscript in a clearer way. In addition, it is better for the authors to show the results in a more logic way.

2.      In the Introduction part, it is better for the authors to show the novelty of the manuscript in a clearer way by further introducing the importance of the dryland ulluco cultivation and yields, the different climate change scenarios. Moreover, it is better for the authors to supplement the related researches of the AquaCrop model on its suitability, shortcomings and robustness.

3.      In the Discussion part, it is better for the authors to show the related parts in a more logic way. The research shortcoming should be supplemented in a clearer way. In addition, it is better for the authors to supplement the relationship between the trials in terms of the fertilization and seeding and the AquaCrop model to provide the readers the more robust conclusions.

4.      In the Conclusion part, it is better for the authors to supplement the future prospects.

5.      For all the tables or figures, it is better for the authors to unify the formats and supplement the related descriptions of all the abbreviations, to make readers understand them in a clearer way.

6.      And grammar errors，and format problems (such as superscript and subscript) occurred in this manuscript. It is better if the authors could check and revise them carefully with the help of the native English researchers.

Comments on the Quality of English Language

 It is better if the authors could check and revise them carefully with the help of the native English researchers.

Author Response

Dear reviewer,

Thanks for your comments, please see the attachment for responses and the updated manuscript.

Author Response File: Author Response.pdf

Reviewer 3 Report

Comments and Suggestions for Authors

The article titled "Dryland Ulluco Cultivation Yields Evaluation Facing Climate Change Scenarios in the Peruvian Central Andes by Using the AquaCrop Model" examines the impact of climate change on ulluco cultivation in high-altitude, arid environments through the AquaCrop model. While this study provides valuable insights into food security in the Andean region, several comments need to be addressed before a final publication.

The study employs the AquaCrop model for simulations, which is a recognized tool for crop yield predictions. However, the article should clearly outline the model's parameters, assumptions, and limitations. Providing more details about the model’s calibration and validation would enhance the reliability of the findings.

In the second paragraph of the introduction, the given statement must be updated with given studies [1,2] as “In the current context, climate change, driven by carbon emissions from crops, livestock, industrial, and household sectors, is impacting agriculture globally through extreme events [1,2]. Dryfield crops' susceptibility…”

[1] https://doi.org/10.1007/s11356-022-21560-9

[2] https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jenvman.2023.119654 

The article discusses different climate change scenarios but does not elaborate on how these scenarios were selected or justified. It is important to clarify whether these scenarios align with established frameworks like the IPCC Representative Concentration Pathways (RCPs). This would ensure the scenarios are plausible and relevant for policy planning.

The study examines yield changes over time but does not specify the exact time horizon considered. Clarifying the timeline would help readers understand the study's scope and relevance, especially when making long-term agricultural decisions.

The article focuses on the Peruvian Central Andes, which has unique geographical characteristics. While this regional focus is important, the study should discuss the generalizability of its findings. How might these results apply to other regions with similar climatic and geographical conditions?

Impact of Temperature and Precipitation: The study finds that ulluco yields are influenced by temperature increases and seasonal precipitation changes. It would be beneficial to analyze these factors more deeply and discuss their potential interactions. For example, how might increased temperatures exacerbate or mitigate the effects of changing precipitation patterns?

The study suggests a shift from yield increases to reductions due to rising temperatures and evapotranspiration. The article should explore potential adaptation strategies or breeding programs that could mitigate these vulnerabilities. This would provide practical value for farmers and policymakers.

Water Management Practices: The study highlights the importance of adapting water management practices. The article should provide more specific recommendations, considering the unique challenges of dryland farming. What practical measures can farmers implement to improve water use efficiency in light of climate change?

The article has important implications for food security and climate adaptation. Providing concrete recommendations or policy suggestions would enhance the study’s impact. For instance, what can governments or agricultural agencies do to support ulluco farmers in adapting to climate change?

The study's technical nature might be challenging for non-specialist readers. Using clear language, visual aids, or executive summaries would improve accessibility and ensure the research reaches a broader audience, including farmers, policymakers, and community stakeholders.

Author Response

Dear reviewer,

Thanks for your comments, please see the attachment for responses and the updated manuscript.

Author Response File: Author Response.pdf

Round 2

Reviewer 2 Report

Comments and Suggestions for Authors

The authors have revised manuscript to a large extent. Overall, the manuscript is worthy of publication to a large extent. However, I have few concerns that should be addressed before the paper could be published.

It is better if the authors could check and revise them carefully and thoroughly. There are some format problems  (such as superscript and subscript) occurring in this revised manuscript.

Comments on the Quality of English Language

It is better if the authors could check and revise them carefully and thoroughly. There are some format problems  (such as superscript and subscript) occurring in this revised manuscript.

 

Author Response

Dear reviewer

We reviewed the English and added the highlighted paragraphs to improve the manuscript with your observations and the editor's recommendations about the journal scope.

We hope you find a better manuscript

Regards

Reviewer 3 Report

Comments and Suggestions for Authors

No further significant questions.

Author Response

Dear reviewer

We reviewed the English and added the highlighted paragraphs to improve the manuscript with your observations and the editor's recommendations about the journal scope.

We hope you find a better manuscript

Regards