Journal article

Publication year: 2005

Pages: 489-501

Journal: Ecological Modelling

Volume number: 186

Issue number: 4

ISSN: 0304-3800

DOI Link: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ecolmodel.2005.02.014

Publisher: Elsevier

Abstract: 

Ecology requires the conceptual and
technical ability to analyse complex and dynamic systems consisting of a
high and variable number of components and relations. These components
are part of a variable interaction structure in a spatially
heterogeneous context. The components of ecological interaction networks
can give rise to self-organised, and scale-dependent interaction
patterns and processes, which are the underlying causes of the overall
ecological systems states.

The individual-based modelling approach
provides a widely applicable simulation framework based on a ‘hierarchy
theory’ view of ecological systems.

Here, we summarise and
generalise the theoretical implications of the modelling studies
presented in this volume in the field of terrestrial and aquatic, animal
and plant ecology. The case studies cover a representative profile of
processes related to ecological applications, such as food web
interactions, population dynamics, dispersal, energy physiology,
nutrient allocation and mutual impact of morphological and physiological
development. The generic approach applied in this context allows a
hierarchical representation of ecological systems and their components.
Model results are obtained as self-organised structural relation
networks and as aggregated quantitative states. In order to address
different model characteristics we distinguish collective and emergent
properties. Collective properties are those that are attributed equally
to different organisation levels of the system. Emergent properties
result from the activities of lower level entities on a higher
organisation level, while not being present on the lower level. They can
be subdivided into aggregational and connective
properties. Emergent properties that are aggregational are those which
emerge as a result of an aggregation procedure by an observer on the
higher level which does not make sense or is not applicable on lower
levels. Emergent properties that are connective, however, are based on
an interaction network of lower level entities, which brings about the
specific system characteristic.

This classification of model
results will allow to generalise the achievements and potential of the
individual-based modelling approach in ecology.

Harvard Citation style: Reuter, H., Hölker, F., Middelhoff, U., Jopp, F., Eschenbach, C. and Breckling, B. (2005) The concepts of emergent and collective properties in individual-based models-Summary and outlook of the Bornhoved case studies, Ecological Modelling, 186(4), pp. 489-501. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ecolmodel.2005.02.014

APA Citation style: Reuter, H., Hölker, F., Middelhoff, U., Jopp, F., Eschenbach, C., & Breckling, B. (2005). The concepts of emergent and collective properties in individual-based models-Summary and outlook of the Bornhoved case studies. Ecological Modelling. 186(4), 489-501. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ecolmodel.2005.02.014