Projektbeschreibung C4

Modeling the role of complementarity, species identity, and neutrality for diversity maintenance in broad-leaved forests

The aim of the project is to implement an individual-based, spatially-explicit tree model in order to investigate the role of species identity for individual performance and community structure dynamics. To model above- and below-ground processes I will consider neighbor interactions such as competition for light, water, and nutrients. I will also look at complementarity effects on growth.
First, I will implement a neutral model with no differentiation between species. I will simulate tree growth dependent on light, water, and nutrient availability. Then, I will address differentiation between species by including the characteristics of the species investigated in the other projects of the graduate school, i.e. beech, linden, ash, mountain maple, and hornbeam. The simulated stands will differ in number and proportion of tree species. I will compare the two approaches (with and without differentiation) with respect to species composition, number of individuals and yield per hectare over time.