Articles tagged with Ecological Modeling
Researchers used lab-based experimental ecosystems to model relationship between nutrients and biodiversity, finding that precise relationship depends on species present. The study's results show that low levels of nutrients can lead to high levels of biodiversity.
Wealthy nations willing to spend $1 billion annually could prevent half a billion metric tons of carbon dioxide from being emitted globally over the next 25 years. The program, called 'avoided deforestation,' would put an end to a tenth of tropical deforestation, one of the top contributors to greenhouse gas emissions.
Researchers used a neutral model to predict fish diversity in the Mississippi-Missouri River System, demonstrating its potential for analyzing complex systems. The approach, which assumes functional equivalence among species, provides new insights into biodiversity patterns and their relationship with environmental change.
A recent study in PLOS ONE investigates the loss of seed dispersal interactions on Mauritius and its impact on regeneration. The Janzen-Connell model suggests that seeds need to be dispersed away from adult trees, but many fleshy-fruited plant species lack crucial seed dispersal interactions.
A new study reveals that the slightest environmental perturbation can tip an ecosystem's balance, with unpredictable and irreversible consequences. Icelandic midges provide a unique model to assess these dynamics, highlighting the fragility of ecosystems and the importance of understanding their responses to human-induced changes.
A new computer model, developed by University of Illinois ecologist Adam Davis, aims to predict the most effective biological control agent for reducing garlic mustard populations in temperate forests. The model uses simulation dynamics and testing protocols to identify a tiny weevil as a promising candidate.
A recent Smithsonian study reveals that widely used sediment prediction tools are failing to accurately forecast sediment delivery to the Chesapeake Bay. The researchers suggest a shift in focus towards understanding what happens near streams and during high-level stream events.
Green roofs offer multiple benefits, including reduced energy costs and controlled storm-water runoff. They also provide havens for local wildlife, making them an attractive alternative to traditional roofing options. Researchers argue that further research is needed to optimize green roof designs and plant species.
Researchers from IRD and IMARPE found that fishermen adopt similar movement strategies to natural predators when searching for anchovy fish, highlighting the importance of an ecosystem-based approach to fisheries management. This study used VMS data to analyze vessel movements and identify areas with high vulnerability of stock exploited.
Researchers at K-State are working on a virtual ecological forecasting center in Kansas to study the impact of climate change and environmental changes on ecosystems. The project aims to predict changes in land use, water use, fish populations, and biodiversity.
A new key review by Gotelli and McGill provides an overview of the current status of neutral models in ecology, highlighting their role relative to older ecological models. The paper demonstrates parallels in theory development between neutral models and null models, shedding light on community patterns and species interactions.
The Wildlife Conservation Society proposes a simpler, four-tiered system to measure conservation success for wildlife populations. The system aims to move beyond demographic sustainability and focus on ecological functionality, where species serve their role in ecosystems.
A recent study challenges metabolic ecology models, which failed to explain tropical forest structure and dynamics. Instead, researchers found that environmental conditions and species traits play a crucial role in shaping these ecosystems.
A new study reveals that overfishing of sharks triggers a domino effect of changes in abundance, contributing to the degradation of Caribbean reefs. The researchers found that sharks play a crucial role in maintaining the stability of the ecosystem, and their removal can lead to a decline in plant-eating fish populations.
The National Evolutionary Synthesis Center (NESCent) has been established in Durham, North Carolina, with a $15 million grant from the National Science Foundation. The center aims to unify the biological sciences by promoting cross-disciplinary studies and synthesizing evolutionary knowledge for policymakers, educators, and society.
A new study using computer models found that human activities are the main cause of caribou decline in northern Alberta. The research suggests that if current development rates continue, woodland caribou will be eliminated from the area in 37 years.
Ehrlich proposes the creation of a Millennium Assessment of Human Behavior to examine the ethical dimensions of human culture and its impact on the environment. The panel would aim to reconcile different values and explore ways to reduce inequality, promote sustainable lifestyles, and address global challenges.
The study's findings suggest that current conservation planning approaches may be hindering species protection. Instead, scientists recommend a more dynamic business plan approach, leveraging market uncertainty and landowner motivation to safeguard habitat for highly threatened species.
Research reveals that European trees are limited in their ability to track climate changes, with many species occupying less than half of their suitable range. This limitation is attributed to dispersal restriction, suggesting that most species will struggle to adapt to future warming.
Researchers propose a mechanism that helps uncommon species coexist with identical competitors, aligning with discoveries of cryptic fig wasp species. The evolutionary local mate competition theory is tested, revealing a demographic advantage to uncommon species.
Researchers develop theoretical models to understand the spatial component of insect outbreaks and predict their spread. By analyzing the Larch budmoth infestation in the European Alps, they confirmed that space-time models accurately predict geographic spread and timing, even with complex dynamics involved.
A broad consortium of scientists proposes developing ecological forecasting to forecast environmental changes, protect ecosystems, and predict the impacts of global warming. The initiative aims to improve planning and decision-making by providing reliable forecasts of ecosystem state and services.
Ecologists developed a new mathematical model that uses just a few factors to capture the essentials of predator-prey battles, predicting population cycles and dynamics. The model was tested in a laboratory microcosm with single-celled algae and microscopic animals, showing results consistent with predictions.
A team of geologists proposes a new model for the collision and rifting of ancient continents, contradicting a previous theory. The revised model suggests that land masses were broken apart into smaller terrains that attached over time, rather than undergoing a massive collision.
A five-year study will investigate how physical, biological and human interactions shape the ecosystems of Lake Ontario's freshwater bays and lagoons. The research team, led by Mark B. Bain, will examine internal ecosystem processes and integrate data to determine conditions for self-organization of ecosystems.
A new study by geophysicists Shelley J. Kenner and Paul Segall suggests that devastating earthquakes could strike the New Madrid seismic zone along the Mississippi River within this century, potentially causing widespread destruction from Arkansas to Iowa.
A new computer model has shown early success in predicting toxic blue-green algae blooms up to four weeks before they occur. The model uses artificial neural networks to learn key factors contributing to algal outbreaks, enabling accurate forecasts and better understanding of the factors involved.
Scientists developed a theoretical model of food web organization based on two simple rules, revealing deep similarities between diverse ecosystems. The 'niche model' accurately predicts 12 characteristics of food webs, surpassing the cascade model's predictions.
A team led by Penn State's Ken Tamminga is using a new approach to regenerate the Nine Mile Run area in Pittsburgh, highlighting the potential of resilient species like Ailanthus and African dung beetles. The project aims to enhance biodiversity and reintroduce native species to create a more sustainable ecosystem.
Experts argue that conservation biologists should move away from simplistic predictive models based on population size to conserve species effectively. John Wehausen analyzed California bighorn populations and found that many small populations persisted for 50 years, contradicting predictions made by a 1990 model.
Researchers study hybrid species' genetic makeup and impact on ecosystems, challenging existing paradigms. Some studies find hybrids to be more fit than their parents in certain environments, while others reveal increased susceptibility to parasites.
The US National Park Service faces challenges in managing wildlife populations due to conflicting goals and limited information. Adaptive management is proposed as a solution to resolve these issues. The study of ecological systems reveals new insights into what may be ecologically appropriate decisions regarding park management.
Precious Woods Ltd, a forestry company in Brazil, has been awarded the ESA Corporate Award for its innovative approach to sustainable forest management. The company's use of advanced planning and ecological principles has resulted in the conservation of 97% of primary forest in the State of Amazonas.
The USGS is developing simulation models to evaluate the effects of proposed remedial actions on stream chemistry in abandoned mine lands. These models are applied to St. Kevin Gulch, a small stream near Leadville, Colorado, providing estimates of water quality that reflect the impact of proposed actions.
A University of Cincinnati computer model is being used to study the most cost-effective plans for species preservation. The model, developed by researchers Jeffrey Camm and Amy Ando, takes into account both species distributions and land values to provide a more flexible and economical approach.
A year-long study predicts severe impacts of global warming on North American prairies, with water shortages and habitat loss threatening migratory birds. The changing climate could lead to further ecosystem upheavals, forcing native species out as nuisance plants move in.
A new coupled biological and physical model could predict the health of near-shore ocean environments where rivers meet the sea. The model identifies key processes involved in an ecosystem and quantifies their importance, providing insights into how these systems interact.
The paper presents an interactive introduction to SORTIE, a computer model of forest dynamics based on individual-trees. The digital output includes scores of still images and a dozen color animations, allowing readers to visualize the complexity of the model.
Researchers are investigating how climate change affects plant community composition, whole-ecosystem carbon exchange, and energy balance in northern peatlands. The goal is to determine the mechanisms of biotic control over temperature and its impact on ecosystem processes.