Agent-based Modelling of the Distribution of Calanus finmarchicus and C. hyperboreus as Input to Habitat Modeling of North-Atlantic-Right-Whale

The North Atlantic right whale (NARW) population, Eubalaena glacialis, is highly endangered. Reproduction success is thought to depend on availability of their main prey, energy-rich copepods. Thus, abiotic and biotic environmental conditions might be of high importance to determine suitable habitats of the NARW. In the framework of the smartwhales program (Canadian Space Agency), we propose to develop a model to predict North Atlantic Right Whale (NARW) distribution, through the use of a novel integrated dynamic ecological modeling technique. To carry out dynamic habitat modeling, the spatial and temporal distribution of the two main prey species, the copepods Calanus finmarchicus and C. hyperboreus are key. Therefore, our objective here is to accurately predict the distribution of C. finmarchicus and C. hyperboreus over a 5 year hindcast period using a novel Agent-based modeling (ABM) approach.

Faculty Supervisor:

Gesche Winkler

Student:

Partner:

WSP Canada Inc

Discipline:

Life Sciences

Sector:

Sustainability & the Environment; Other; Environmental Science and Technology

University:

Université du Québec à Rimouski

Program: