Modelling of aquatic populations and ecosystems
Computer-based mechanistic simulation models play an increasingly important role in environmental risk analysis and environmental management.
For example, dynamic water quality models are increasingly regarded as useful decision-making tools in integrated water management and efficient implementation of the EU Water Framework Directive. In addition, the use of effect models which can adequately represent the impact of pesticides on populations or communities is gaining acceptance in the ecotoxicological risk assessment.
The following modelling approaches are currently in use at gaiac:
Aquatic ecosystem models for standing waters
- StoLaM: A water quality model for shallow and deep lakes (compartment model)
- Modelling populations in aquatic mesocosms: Hybrid model, which combines a compartment lake model (StoLaM) and individual-based population models
Development of individual-based population models (IBMs)
- IBM Chaoborus: Population model for the phantom midge (Chaoborus crystallinus, Diptera)
- Water flea (Daphnia magna) population model (Dr. T. Preuss, RWTH Aachen University)