Stochastic Compartment Models of Ecological Succession: Evaluation of Their Usefulness to Natural Resource Managers
Academic Article
Overview
Identity
Additional Document Info
Other
View All
Overview
abstract
The application of linear compartment model theory to natural resource management problems involving ecological succession is discussed. The mathematical development of compartment models from the one-compartment deterministic case to the multi-compartment stochastic case is presented, using a parallel development to emphasize natural relationships between the various models, and important ecological interpretations are noted. The possibilities of defining problems involving ecological succession in terms of linear compartment model theory is particularly appealing because parameterization of such models does not require an extensive data base. The simple design of linear compartment models also increases the likelihood of their use by natural resource managers. 1983, International Society for Ecological Modelling.