Optimality-based modeling of planktonic organisms

摘要: On the basis of assumption that natural selection should tend to produce organisms optimally adapted their environments, we consider optimality as a guiding concept for abstracting behavior aquatic microorganisms (plankton) develop models study and predict planktonic communities. This is closely related trait-based ecology, which considers traits functionality can be understood result optimization inherent in selection, subject constraints imposed by fundamental processes necessary life. approach particularly well suited plankton because long evolutionary history ease with they manipulated experiments. We review recent quantitative modeling studies have been based on adaptation species acclimation maximize growth rate. Compared mechanistic not formulated terms optimality, this has some cases yielded simpler models, others greater generality. The success any given must depend its interactions both physical environment other organisms, evolving all concerned. an evolutionarily stable strategy (ESS) can, at least principle, constrain choice goal functions optimized models. However, major challenge remains how construct level resolve short-term dynamics, e.g., phytoplankton blooms, way consistent ESS theory, steady state.