A system dynamics model of island biogeography (Q1180226)

The MacArthur-Wilson equilibrium theory of island biogeography [\textit{R. H. MacArthur} and \textit{E. O. Wilson}, The theory of island biogeography. (1967)] has been one of the more influential concepts in modern biogeography and ecology. We synthesize the theory and examine effects of different immigration/extinction rate - species diversity curves on original predictions from the theory by using the system dynamics simulation modeling approach. Moreover, we develop a comprehensive and generic system dynamics model to incorporate a variety of recent modifications and extensions of the theory, including area effect, distance effect, competition effect, habitat diversity effect, target effect, and rescue effect. Through computer simulation with STELLA, a more profound understanding of the theory of island biogeography can be gained. The system dynamics modeling approach is especially appropriate for such a study because it maximizes the utilization of the ecological data by incorporating qualitative information so that a complex, imprecisely-defined ecological system can be studied quantitatively, effectively, and comprehensively.