The Lagrangian Ensemble Recruitment model (LERM)

This technical report documents the Lagrangian Ensemble Recruitment Model (LERM). It is based on Matteo Sinerchia's PhD thesis, which can be downloaded from http://www.virtualecology.org. LERM replaces WB as the baseline model for research in the Virtual Plankton Ecology research group at Imperial College. ___________ LERM is an individual-based model designed to be integrated under the Lagrangian Ensemble metamodel which creates virtual ecosystems. It was created on the Virtual Ecology Workbench (download Handbook VEW 3.3 from http://www.virtualecology.org ). The model uses phenotypic equations for all biological functions, including the physiology and behaviour of individual plankters. These equations were derived from the scientific literature. They are based mainly on reproducible experiments performed by marine biologists under controlled conditions. They are therefore as soundly based as the equations for physical and chemical processed used in combination with LERM to create virtual ecosystems.