Making eco logic and models work : an integrative approach to lake ecosystem modelling

Wageningen University 2016

Dynamical ecosystem models are important tools that can help ecologists understand complex systems, and turn understanding into predictions of how these systems respond to external changes. This thesis revolves around PCLake, an integrated ecosystem model of shallow lakes that is used by both scientists and water quality managers to understand and predict eutrophication effects in shallow lake ecosystems. Shallow lakes provide some of the clearest examples of alternative stable states in natural systems. PCLake can be used to calculate the critical nutrient loading, that is, the nutrient loading where an abrupt regime shift occurs from a clear aquatic plant dominated state to a turbid phytoplankton dominated state, or vice versa. Four different aspects of modelling with PCLake are addressed in this thesis: (1) making the model better accessible for the modelling community, (2) improving the model, (3) developing scientific theory, and (4) exploring new applications for water quality management. Following a general introduction to the thesis in chapter 1, the Database Approach To Modelling (DATM) is introduced in chapter 2. DATM is invented to make dynamic models more accessible. The idea of DATM is that the mathematical equations of a model are stored in a database independently of program language and software specific information. From the database, the information can be automatically translated, augmented and compiled into working model code of various different modelling frameworks (software programs). In chapter 3 the weak link between ecosystem models and real ecosystems is discussed in relation to model calibration and improvement. In a previous stage PCLake has been calibrated using data of more than 40 lakes to obtain a best overall fit, which has greatly increased the scope of the model by making it suitable for more generalized studies on temperate shallow lakes. However, because of this calibration, adding missing functional components to the model at a
Vier verschillende aspecten van het modelleren met PCLake staan centraal in dit onderzoek: het ontsluiten van het model, het verbeteren van het model, het uitbouwen van ecologische theorie, en het uitwerken van een nieuwe toepassing in het waterkwaliteitsbeheer.

aquatic ecology; databases; ecology; ecosystems; modeling; models; water management; water quality; aquatische ecologie; databanken; ecologie; ecosystemen; modellen; modelleren; waterbeheer; waterkwaliteit; Doctoral thesis

Open access content. Open access content
Wageningen University & Research

application/pdf
English

NLWUP oai:library.wur.nl:wurpubs/509418
https://research.wur.nl/en/publications/making-eco-logic-and-models-work-an-integrative-approach-to-lake-
10.18174/391208
1350182480

WUR STAFF PUBNS
From OAIster®, provided by the OCLC Cooperative.

edsoai.on1350182480