C. Lett et al., Comparison of a cellular automata network and an individual-based model for the simulation of forest dynamics, ECOL MODEL, 121(2-3), 1999, pp. 277-293
Our goal is to model and simulate forest dynamics in order to observe large
-scale characteristics of the forest as they emerge from local competitive
interplay among individuals. This objective can be reached by developing a
spatial gap model. Spatialisation can be achieved from a space- or individu
al-oriented perspective. Because the choice of one approach over the other
leads to consequences affecting the simulated dynamics that are difficult t
o assess a priori, we have decided to consider both and have thus developed
two models: a cellular automata network and an individual-based model. Bot
h models are simulated and respective temporal and spatial dynamics are ana
lysed. Although simulation results are similar, some differences highlight
underlying assumptions of each conceptual approach. The manner in which the
two models complement each other is all the more interesting in that each
one has its particular assets and can be used for different perspectives of
development. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.