Modelling for Field Biologists and Other Interesting PeopleStudents of evolutionary and behavioural ecology are often unfamiliar with mathematical techniques, though much of biology relies on mathematics. Evolutionary ideas are often complex, meaning that the logic of hypotheses proposed should not only be tested empirically but also mathematically. There are numerous different modelling tools used by ecologists, ranging from population genetic 'bookkeeping', to game theory and individual-based computer simulations. Due to the many different modelling options available, it is often difficult to know where to start. Hanna Kokko has designed this 2007 book to help with these decisions. Each method described is illustrated with one or two biologically interesting examples that have been chosen to help overcome fears of many biologists when faced with mathematical work, whilst also providing the programming code (Matlab) for each problem. Aimed primarily at students of evolutionary and behavioural ecology, this book will be of interest to any biologist interested in mathematical modelling. |
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allele argument assume assumptions B's best response barnacle beerproblem behaviour best response biological birds body condition breeding calculate choice costs denote depends derivative different values diploid dispersal distribution dynamic Ecology effect equals equation equilibrium evolution evolutionary ecology evolutionary rescue exactly example expected fecundity females fitness foraging frequency function g(Ah game theory gene genetic models genotype give h₁ Hamilton's rule haploid happens hvalues inclusive fitness increase Jyväskylä Kokko look low-quality male lynx male trait mathematical mating season mating success MATLAB matrix McNamara means metapopulation migration propensity migratory morph mutant natural selection newpop nonmigrants notation optimal options output parameter patch PAXA phenotypic photosynthesis plant height plot population genetic possible predation risk predict probability problem produce quantitative genetics reaction norm reproductive success resident strategy sexual selection simply simulation solutions survival switchpoint territories Turku variables vector xnew zero
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Page 212 - Keller, L. (2006). The evolution of cooperation and altruism — a general framework and a classification of models. Journal of Evolutionary Biology 19: 1365-1376.