Ecosystem dynamics: the role of noise

Ecosystems have been modeled with simple yet effective coupled equations ever since Lotka-Volterra burst onto the stage in the early 1900s. These models have gradually expanded in reach and complexity, while remaining very accessible for desktop simulation approach. There are many different questions to be answered about the performance of the models. One recent adaptation of these models can capture evolutionary dynamics from a single ancestor by introducing noise and a “resource space”. The full impact of this variant of MacArthur models is still not clear which makes it a great project for a numerically inclined student with an interest in ecosystems and evolution.