Dysfunctionality in ecosystem models: an underrated pitfall?
Anderson, Thomas R. and Mitra, Aditee (2010) Dysfunctionality in ecosystem models: an underrated pitfall? Progress in Oceanography, 84, (1-2), 66-68. (doi:10.1016/j.pocean.2009.09.007).
Download
Full text not available from this repository.
Description/Abstract
Including causal mechanisms in model formulations is the key to predictive success. Yet it would appear that much of our latest (specifically ecophysiological) understanding accruing from phenomological evidence and experimental work is often not being included within model structures. Dysfunctional equations (which fail to capture mechanistic understanding, and which lead to incorrect model behaviour) are often used instead, the use of fixed Monod formulations to simulate multiple-nutrient interactions in phytoplankton, or Holling type II descriptions of resource-limited predatory activity, being typical examples. In some instances, dysfunctional equations may be adopted through sheer ignorance, a worrying prospect given our incomplete knowledge of many processes occurring in marine ecosystems. One wonders, for example, to what extent the parameterisations used in the current generation of complex ecosystem models being developed for climate studies, and the predictions thereof, can be relied upon. Here, we investigate the underlying problems leading to the use of dysfunctional models within marine food web systems, our perusal of the subject suggesting that ignorance is by no means the only factor, other reasons being indifference, inertia, and subservience to simplicity.
| Item Type: | Article |
|---|---|
| ISSNs: | 0079-6611 (print) |
| Related URLs: | |
| Keywords: | model complexity, marine ecoystem models |
| Subjects: | G Geography. Anthropology. Recreation > GC Oceanography Q Science > Q Science (General) Q Science > QH Natural history > QH301 Biology |
| Divisions: | University Structure - Pre August 2011 > National Oceanography Centre (NERC) National Oceanography Centre (NERC) > Marine Systems Modelling |
| Item ID: | 54652 |
| Date Deposited: | 17 Jul 2008 |
| Last Modified: | 14 Jun 2012 12:54 |
| Contributors: | Anderson, Thomas R. (Author) Mitra, Aditee (Author) |
| Date: | January 2010 |
| Status: | Published |
| URI: | http://eprints.soton.ac.uk/id/eprint/54652 |
Actions (login required)
 |
View Item |
