Provides an introduction to modeling. This title covers principles of hierarchical modeling ranging from the molecular level, through populations, ecosystems, landscapes, networks, through to the global ecosphere. It covers a range of topics, from the molecular level to the global ecosphere.
The book provides an overview on the wide range of ecological models used to better understand biological systems, from the cell to the ecosphere. The structure of the book follows the vertical hierarchy of organizational levels of life. The presented modeling techniques help in focusing on both horizontal processes (within particular levels) and their vertical interconnections (between levels). The issues addressed include evergreen questions (the origin of life, ecodynamics) and actual problems to solve (maximum sustainable yield, habitat recreation).
