Grant W.E., Swannack T.M. Ecological Modeling: A Common-Sense Approach to Theory and Practice

Blackwell Publishing, 2008. — 170 p. — ISBN: 978-1-4051-6168-8.Ecological Modeling: A Commonsense Approach to Theory and Practice explores how simulation modeling and its new ecological applications can offer solutions to complex natural resource management problems. This is a practical guide for students, teachers, and professional ecologists.
Examines four phases of the modeling process: conceptual model formulation, quantitative model specification, model evaluation, and model use
Provides useful building blocks for constructing systems simulation models. Includes a format for reporting the development and use of simulation models. Offers an integrated systems perspective for students, faculty, and professionals.
We do not present alternative mathematical formats or computer code for the examples in this book. Nor do we include references to the primary ecological modeling literature in the body of the text. We felt this would distract us from our main theme. There is a rich literature describing diverse types of ecological (biological, environmental, natural resource) models developed using a variety of mathematical and computer programming formats. Much of this literature is readily available on the internet, and readers should have no difficulty finding examples in their
particular area of interest. We do provide 60 references to scientific articles containing ecological models in Appendix A. We intend these references to serve only as points of entry into the primary literature.