Advisor(s)
Abstract(s)
Individual based models (IBMs) are up-to-date tools both in research
and educational areas. Here we introduce an IBM built on NetLogo
platform that simulates a top-down trophic cascade controlled by the
pressure exerted by two model predators (web-building spiders and
ground runner spiders) on a model pest (the olive fruit fly) within
a hypothetical agricultural landscape (the olive crop). EcoPred is an
IBM that aims to be an educational tool that can help teachers to
explain concepts related to ecology in a modern, enjoyable and
comprehensive way. EcoPred reflects the changes on a fly population
within a simulated olive crop according to (1) the mortality rate
caused by the predation of two spider species and energy loss, (2)
the energy gain by feeding on flowers and (3) the reproduction rate in
olive trees. The model was tested with 26 students achieving very
good results in terms of acceptance and interest on the learning
method. EcoPred can be used for educational purposes with 16 year
old students and older to explain ecological concepts such as trophic
level, species interactions, limiting factor and biological control in an
interactive way simultaneously introducing students to biology
oriented programming languages.
Description
Keywords
Learning tool NetLogo Predator Programming Trophic cascade
Citation
Benhadi-Marín, Jacinto; Pereira, José Alberto; Sousa, José Paulo; Santos, Sónia A.P. (2020). EcoPred: an educational individual based model to explain biological control, a case study within an arable land. Journal of Biological Education. ISSN 0021-9266. 54, p. 271-286