Beyond Diffusion: Animal-Mediated Nutrient Transport at Different Spatial Scales

Ecosystems are linked by exchanges of both energy and matter. These exchanges can be passive, as in water run-off, or active, as when an animal moves between ecosystems. These two types of exchanges can act against each other but, while research has focused on passive exchanges, not much is known about active exchanges. In this project, we propose to develop a mathematical model to describe how animals move matter between different ecosystems via the most common form of movement: foraging. Our foraging model will include the distance between two ecosystems, the quantity and quality of food available, and the risk of finding a predator. We will validate our model with real-world data from two different study systems, the alpine highlands of Argentina’s Andes and the boreal forests of central Newfoundland. Our foraging model will be a useful tool for researchers, managers and policy-makers to address real-world issues, such as the active transfer of artificial chemicals from croplands to forests by wild herbivores foraging in the former and resting in the latter.

Faculty Supervisor:

Shawn Leroux

Student:

Partner:

Yale University

Discipline:

Life Sciences

Sector:

Education

University:

Memorial University of Newfoundland

Program: