Individual-based modelling of resource competition to predict density-dependent population dynamics: a case study with white storks

摘要: Density regulation influences population dynamics through its effects on demographic rates and consequently constitutes a key mechanism explaining the response of organisms to environmental changes. Yet, it is difficult establish exact form density dependence from empirical data. Here, we developed an individual-based model explore how resource limitation behavioural processes determine spatial structure white stork Ciconia ciconia populations regulate reproductive rates. We found that differed considerably between landscapes with same overall availability home range selection strategies, highlighting importance fine-scale distribution in interaction behaviour. In accordance theories dependence, breeding output generally decreased but this effect was highly variable strongly affected by optimal foraging strategy, detection probability colonial Moreover, our results uncovered overlooked consequence showing high early nestling mortality storks, assumed be outcome harsh weather, may actually result dependent food provision. Our findings emphasize accounting for interactive individual behaviour local factors crucial understanding density-dependent within spatially structured populations. Enhanced ways animal are regulated general, habitat conditions dictate critically needed predicting populations, communities ecosystems under changing conditions.