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
Twospecies interactions or complexity per | 5 |
F Stochastic and deterministic models | 12 |
G ParameciumDidinium experiments | 33 |
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
absence abundant adult alter amplitude analysis argument assumed assumptions average become behaviour breeding cause cells Chapter clear coexistence competition complex conclusion connectivity consequences consider constant convergent corresponding curve cycle delay density depends described difficulty discussed distribution divergent ecology ecosystem effects environment equal equations equilibrium establish example extinction factors figure fluctuations follows function genetic give given growth habitat Hence herbivores host important increase individual interactions lead less limited mathematical mean migration move natural neighbouring optimal oscillations pairs parasite particular patterns period persistence phase population positive possible predator predator-prey prey species probability produce pupae reached reasons reduce regulation relative relevant represent reproductive requires result selection shown in figure shows simulation single solution stabilising stability success suggested suppose takes territorial behaviour territory tion unstable values variables