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Quantitative Vegetation Dynamics: Models from Tree to Globe
Last Updated: 2026-02-05 15:35:01
Abstract
This course provides hands-on experience with models of vegetation dynamics across temporal and spatial scales. The underlying principles, assets and trade-offs of the different approaches are introduced, and students work in a number of small projects with these models to gain first-hand experience.
Objective
Students will - be able to understand, assess and evaluate the fundamental properties of dynamic systems using vegetation models as case studies - obtain an overview of dynamic modelling techniques from the individual plant to the global level - understand the basic assumptions of the various model types, which dictate the skill and limitations of the respective model - be able to work with such model types on their own - appreciate the methodological basis for impact assessments of future climate change and other environmental changes on ecosystems.
Content
Models of individuals - Deriving single-plant models from inventory measurements - Plant models based on 'first principles' Models at the stand scale - Simple approaches: matrix models - Competition for light and other resources as central mechanisms - Individual-based stand models: distance-dependent and distance-independent Models at the landscape scale - Simple approaches: cellular automata - Dispersal and disturbances (windthrow, fire, bark beetles) as key mechanisms - Landscape models Global models - Sacrificing local detail to attain global coverage: processes and entities - Dynamic Global Vegetation Models (DGVMs) - DGVMs as components of Earth System Models
Resources
Lecture Notes
Handouts will be available in the course and for download
Literature
Will be indicated at the beginning of the course
Learning Materials (Links)
- Main link
- Link to course materials
General Information
- Language
- English
- Levels
- MSC
- Frequency
- Yearly recurring
Examination
- Type
- session examination
- Mode
- oral 45 minutes
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| lecture with exercise |
Quantitative Vegetation Dynamics: Models from Tree to Globe
The lecturers will communicate the exact lesson times of ONLINE courses.
|
|
3 h weekly |