The effects of disturbed ecosystems, from devastating algal blooms to the loss of whale populations, have demonstrated the vulnerability of the oceans'biodiversity. This book provides methods for learning how ocean systems function, how natural and human actions put them in peril, and how we can influence the marine world in order to maintain biodiversity. The difficulties of research in the oceans make computer modeling particularly helpful for marine conservation. The authors demonstrate dynamic modeling through the use of the STELLA modeling program and case studies from marine conservation.

Inhalt

Foreword * Series Preface * Part I. Concepts and Techniques * Introduction * Modeling in STELLA * Predator-Prey Dynamics * Epidemic in the Marine System * Impacts of Fishing Pressure on Mean Length of Fish * Spatial Fisheries Model * Part II. Applications * Modeling Atmosphere-Ocean Interactions and Primary Productivity * Impact of Dynamic Light and Nutrient Environments on Phytoplankton Communities in the Coastal Ocean * Eelgrass Dynamics * Life-stage Based Recovery Dynamics of Marine Invertebrates in Soft-sediment Habitats * Horseshoe Crabs and Shorebirds * Kelp, Urchins and Otters in the California Region * Nile Perch Population Dynamics in Lake Victoria: Implications for Management and Conservation * Dynamics of Multiple Fish Species under Variable Levels of Exploitation * Fish Population Responses to Seafloor Habitat Alteration: Implications for the Design of Marine Protected Areas * Management of the Commons: Social Behavior and Resource Extraction * Cod Aquaculture * The Global Shrimp Market * Part III. Conclusion * Reflections on the Parts and the Total * Acknowledgments * Glossary * Appendix: Quick Help Guide * References * Authors * Acknowledgments