Ecosystem Modelling

The dynamic behavior of ecosystems emerges from interactions at multiple spatial and temporal scales. By understanding pattern formation at different hierarchical levels, one may disentangle how local effects translate into global behavior of complex ecological systems and vice versa. Simulation models are an ideal means for such an integration of ecological knowledge across scales and disciplines. The Ecosystem Modelling group develops and analyses ecological simulation models with an emphasis on spatial ecology and biodiversity. We closely collaborate with field experts from biology, forestry, agriculture, and socioeconomics to gain an integrated understanding of ecosystem behaviour.