Modelling for Field Biologists and Other

Students of evolutionary and behavioural ecology are often unfamiliar with mathematical techniques, though much of biology relies on mathematics. Evolutionary ideas are often complex, meaning that the logic of hypotheses proposed should not only be tested empirically but also mathematically. There are numerous different modelling tools used by ecologists, ranging from population genetic 'bookkeeping', to game theory and individual-based computer simulations. Due to the many different modelling options available, it is often difficult to know where to start. Hanna Kokko has designed this book to help with these decisions. Each method described is illustrated with one or two biologically interesting examples that have been chosen to help overcome fears of many biologists when faced with mathematical work, whilst also providing the programming code (Matlab) for each problem. Aimed primarily at students of evolutionary and behavioural ecology, this book will be of interest to any biologist interested in mathematical modelling.

Preface
Modelling philosophy, where we get momentarily lost in a forest, but emerge intact
Population genetics, where we find males that treat females quite badly, and some salmon get caught
Quantitative genetics, where we learn to handle a bewildering number of loci, after which a whiff of predators does not scare us at all
Optimization methods, where spiders get quite exhausted, and the author confesses an embarrassing mistake from the distant past
Dynamic optimization, where we travel north, and learn how to survive the winter
Game theory, where we get caught in a traffic jam, and end up wondering where all those trees came from
Self-consistent games and evolutionary invasion analysis where winter is approaching once again, and we wonder if the promise of the coming spring should convince us to stay put
Individual-based simulations, where virtual butterflies try to fly out of our reach, until ruthless exploitation of student labour finally captures them
Concluding remarks, where we ask which chapter you liked most (or disliked least), and end the book with a most useful quote
quick guide to Matlab
Table of Contents provided by Publisher. All Rights Reserved.

What is included with this book?

The New copy of this book will include any supplemental materials advertised. Please check the title of the book to determine if it should include any access cards, study guides, lab manuals, CDs, etc.

The Used, Rental and eBook copies of this book are not guaranteed to include any supplemental materials. Typically, only the book itself is included. This is true even if the title states it includes any access cards, study guides, lab manuals, CDs, etc.

FREE SHIPPING

Amazon no longer offers textbook rentals. We do!

Modelling for Field Biologists and Other Interesting People

Summary

Table of Contents

Supplemental Materials