Models in EcologyThis book is aimed at anyone with a serious interest in ecology. Ecological models of two kinds are dealt with: mathematical models of a strategic kind aimed at an understanding of the general properties of ecosystems and laboratory models designed with the same aim in view. The mathematical and experimental models illuminate one another. A strength of the account is that although there is a good deal of mathematics, Professor Maynard Smith has concentrated on making clear the assumptions behind the mathematics and the conclusions to be drawn. Proofs and derivations have been omitted as far as possible. The book is therefore comprehensible to anyone with a minimal familiarity with mathematical notation. This book was written in the twin convictions that ecology will not come of age until it has a sound theoretical basis and there is a long way to go before that state of affairs is reached. |
Contents
Predatorprey systems without age structure | 16 |
E A more general case the RosenzweigMacArthur | 27 |
Breeding seasons and age structure | 36 |
Predatorprey systems with age structure page | 47 |
Competition | 59 |
Migration | 69 |
Stability and complexity an introduction | 85 |
Complexity at a single trophic level | 98 |
Complexity with several trophic levels | 104 |
Coevolution page | 116 |
| 137 | |
Common terms and phrases
abundant amplitude analysis assumed assumptions biomass blowfly carrying capacity Chapter coexistence competing species competition complex conclusion consider constant corresponding curve cycle delay depends deterministic Didinium divergent oscillation dx/dt ecology ecosystem effects environment equilibrium density equilibrium point equilibrium value example extinction favour fluctuations in numbers function generalist genetic feedback Hence herbivores host initial conditions larvae lead limit cycle limited logistic equation mathematical maximise methyl cellulose migration natural selection neighbouring cells number of adults number of cells number of prey number of species numbers of individuals optimal habitat pairs parasite parasitoid patterns persistence phase Pimentel population possible predator and prey predator-prey interaction predator-prey system prey and predators prey density prey species reasons relevant reproductive success sawflies selection shown in figure simulation solution stabilising stability stable equilibrium stationary point statistical mechanics suboptimal habitat suppose survival territorial behaviour tion trophic levels unstable variables Volterra's equations X₁ Xn+1