Revision of mechanisms behind the functioning of aquatic ecosystems. Conceptualization and mathematical formulation of autotrophic and heterotrophic processes, module implementation and sensitivity testing. Identification of databases needed for the formulation of environmental constrains and the calibration and validation of models.

Learning of concepts and steps needed for the construction of deterministic models and their use for understanding and predicting the response of aquatic ecosystems to natural and anthropogenic perturbations.

Required and corequired courses

Theory supported by modeling exercises (module implementation and sensitivity testing) on computer. Three modules are analysed and are related to the dynamics of phytoplankton, zooplankton and bacterioplankton. A report is requested after each module.

References, bibliography, and recommended reading

Soetaert K, Herman P. 2008. A practical guide to ecological modelling. Springer

Contacts

lancelot@ulb.ac.be

Method(s) of evaluation

• Other

Other

The assessment is based on progress made along model exercices, written reports and oral examination. The latter is based on known model simulations discussed in relation with theory

Mark calculation method (including weighting of intermediary marks)

Average of 2 notes: practice (modeling exercices + reports) and oral examination.

Language(s) of evaluation

• french