Syndetics cover image
Image from Syndetics

An introduction to ecological modelling : putting practice into theory / Michael Gillman, Rosemary Hails.

By: Contributor(s): Material type: TextTextSeries: Methods in ecologyPublication details: Cambridge, Mass. : Blackwell Science, 1997.ISBN:
  • 0632036346
Subject(s): DDC classification:
  • 574.50151 20
LOC classification:
  • QH541.15.M3
Contents:
1. Introduction: themes of ecological modelling -- 2. Probability of population extinction -- 3. Looking for cycles: the dynamics of predators and their prey -- 4. Population dynamics of species with complex life-histories -- 5. Dynamics of ecological communities -- 6. Spatial models and thresholds -- 7. Disease and biological control.
Summary: For many students and researchers the potential uses of ecological models and their method of construction remain a mystery. This text aims to open up the theory and application of ecological modelling to a wider audience. Using case studies, the book shows how a relatively small set of techniques of model construction can be used in a wide range of important applications. To do ecological modelling it is essential to use mathematics. In this text the reader is led gently through a progression of mathematical techniques. Each step is carefully explained, with equations immersed in the text. Where further mathematics are required, boxes provide explanations of key concepts and techniques. With the help of this book, those readers with little or no present understanding of modelling will be able to access the modelling literature with more confidence, and will be able to construct, use and test their own basic ecological models.
Holdings
Item type Home library Call number Status Date due Barcode Item holds
Two Week Loan Two Week Loan College Lane Learning Resources Centre Main Shelves 574.50151 GIL (Browse shelf(Opens below)) Available 4403880410
Total holds: 0

Enhanced descriptions from Syndetics:

1. Introduction: themes of ecological modelling -- 2. Probability of population extinction -- 3. Looking for cycles: the dynamics of predators and their prey -- 4. Population dynamics of species with complex life-histories -- 5. Dynamics of ecological communities -- 6. Spatial models and thresholds -- 7. Disease and biological control.

For many students and researchers the potential uses of ecological models and their method of construction remain a mystery. This text aims to open up the theory and application of ecological modelling to a wider audience. Using case studies, the book shows how a relatively small set of techniques of model construction can be used in a wide range of important applications. To do ecological modelling it is essential to use mathematics. In this text the reader is led gently through a progression of mathematical techniques. Each step is carefully explained, with equations immersed in the text. Where further mathematics are required, boxes provide explanations of key concepts and techniques. With the help of this book, those readers with little or no present understanding of modelling will be able to access the modelling literature with more confidence, and will be able to construct, use and test their own basic ecological models.