Systems theory of ecological systems. It provides the "background" theory and
concepts for the other research activities relying on modeling and
simulation. E.g., within the research project RAMSES we develop a general
modeling theory plus the related
software tools
, which particularly support
the structured, modular modeling of complex ecological systems (e.g.
Fischlin 1991
).
Secondly the relationships between
biophysical forcing factors and ecosystem functions are studied. E.g.,
techniques are developed to downscale the output of climate models (GCMs)
to the regional scale, and to construct optimal consistent bioclimatic
scenarios to drive an ecosystem model (e.g.
Gyalistras et al. 1994
).
Thirdly, responses of mountain forests to climatic change in the Alpine
region are studied (see figure). In collaboration with scientists from within
and outside the Instiute of Terrestrial Eclogy (ITO) we develop integrated
models to simulate the dynamics of forests (e.g. ForClim
Bugmann 1994,
Fischlin et al. 1995,
Perruchoud 1996,
Bugmann 1996,
Gyalistras 1997
). The models are built in a
modular manner from integratable, yet independent submodels to test,
analyze, and validate them against field data. Currently studied submodels
mimick tree dynamics (e.g. C- and N-dynamics in the soil), tree migration,
and herbivory (e.g. insect pests, grazing). The models are used to assess
impacts of putative climatic change and to explore the sensitivity of
forests to environmental changes (e.g.
Fischlin & Gyalistras 1997
).
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Terrestrial Systems Ecology
Institute of Terrestrial Ecology (ITÖ)
Department of Environmental Sciences
ETHZ
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