Ecological Modelling

In simulation modeling, good code testing practices provide (a) efficiency, by reducing time wasted using erroneous software; (b) credibility, by providing evidence that important errors are unlikely; and (c) understanding, by showing how complex model results arose. However, code testing receives little attention in agent-based modeling, and many modeling projects have been derailed by undetecte…

Many coral reef models now capture complex demographic, trait-based or ecosystem dynamics, supporting detailed projections under climate stress. However, their application is often constrained by extensive site-specific data needs, specialised modelling expertise and reliance on proprietary software, limiting accessibility and practical transferability. Here we develop CoralPOP, a morphology-base…

East Antarctic food webs support a diverse array of predators such as penguins and whales feeding on mesozooplankton, krill, and fish. We introduce the structure and evaluation process of an end-to-end Atlantis ecosystem model for East Antarctica (East Antarctic Atlantis Model, EAAM), the first whole-of-ecosystem model within the Southern Ocean. The EAAM is intended as a simulation tool to suppor…

Unprecedented quantities of the brown floating macroalgae Sargassum have been recorded in the tropical North Atlantic Ocean. However, the environmental factors affecting holopelagic Sargassum spp. growth and survival remain poorly understood. Here, we developed a multi-reserve DEB model for Sargassum spp. to link environmental conditions (temperature, nutrients, and light) to the organism physiol…

• We develop a trait- and niche-based theoretical model to analyse invasion dynamics. • Generalist invaders profit from their strong competitiveness, while specialists profit from empty niche spaces. • Ecological specialisation and niche position strongly mediate invasion impact. • Optimal level of removal effort differs among diversity indices, emphasising that control programs should align thei…