This page contains a computer simulation model for insect population studies. In the form below you can enter sets of data that are used in the simulation. Initially the form will show default values, which can be replaced by your own values.
For most parameters you can enter a low and a high value (see notes below).
Click the ‘Start Simulation’ button to see the results of the simulation: a graph and summary of the number of females in each generation, and a detailed list of simulation results.
Read the introduction page to learn more about this insect simulation program.
Simulation settings
abc
Notes
For most parameters you have entered a "low" and a "high" value.
- For density dependent factors (e.g. mortality caused by parasitoids or predators) the program will use an algorithm to select a value which is near the "low" when the population density is low, and near the "high" when population density is high.
- For factors that are not density dependent (e.g. other mortality factors such as bad weather conditions) the program will in each cycle (generation) at random select a value between the "low" and the "high".
This variability factor (0-100%) makes the simulation more unpredictable by introducing at random some variation on top of the data that you entered. It varies the "low" and "high" values of density dependent factors, simulating an additional effect of good or bad weather conditions. A higher value will create more variation of the numbers that you entered (different values in each cycle). 0% means no variability, so the program will exactly use the low and high values that you entered. 100% means maximum variability.
The program will first verify the data you entered and if necessary make some corrections. For example, if you set a "low" value higher than the "high" value, the program swap them.
Read the introduction page to learn more about this insect simulation program. And please send me your comments.