A comparative modelling study of plant growth systems in a desert ecosystem

Title	A comparative modelling study of plant growth systems in a desert ecosystem
Publication Type	Thesis
Year of Publication	1974
Authors	Reynolds J.F
Number of Pages	68
Date Published	1974
University	New Mexico State University
City	Las Cruces, New Mexico
Thesis Type	Ph.D. Dissertationpp
Call Number	00269
Keywords	dissertation, dissertations, model, level-rate, model, pulse-reserve, model,comparative, model,plant growth, plant growth system,model, productivity,model, theses, thesis
Abstract	The use of modeling as a tool in ecosystem analysis has mushroomed in recent years.... Two possible modeling approaches are within quantitative and a qualitative formats. The quantitative approach in ecology usually incorporates the level-rate paradigm of Forrester, utilizing systems of differential equations to describe component relationships. A high level of model precision is one of the objectives. The qualitative approach, as used here, incorporated the pulse-reserve paradigm of Bridges, utilizing blocks of logic statements to test for the presence or absence of specific driving variables. A high level of model realism is one of the goals using this technique. Although void of functional relationships or mechanisms, the pulse-reserve model did offer long-term stability. The reserve-trigger-pulse sequence of the model is biologically real and represents an adaptive strategy for organisms in arid environments. The possibility of expanding this approach for and entire system is discussed. A model is proposed that incorporates the more precise level-rate formulation for primary producers and the pulse-reserve paradigm for higher trophic levels.