Actually the critical part of modelling is not the math, but learning to look at and understand the underlying assumptions. Most of the math needed is pretty simple. For example, practially the only differential equations you will encounter are first order ordinary DEs, as higher order DEs and partial DEs are virtually unknown (except perhaps in modelling plankton).
There are some lovely results arising from linear algebra, such as stability analyses based on the eigenvalues of matrices, which seem to have little relevance to the real world. The problem is that to set up linear models in ecology you have to make some really inappropriate assumptions. It is easy to get carried away with the math - that is why so many ecologists find modellers and modelling irrelevant! I recommend Tony Starfield as the best introductory author in the field. Bill Silvert ----- Original Message ----- From: "Patrick Foley" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> To: <ECOLOG-L@LISTSERV.UMD.EDU> Sent: Monday, March 06, 2006 3:50 AM Subject: Re: math modelling > Malcolm, > > Core courses for ecological modelers are: > Differential Equations > Linear Algebra > Probability and statistics > > Each of these is taught for applied scientists at an intermediate, not > highly rigorous way, and also for mathematicians more rigorously. Watch > out to find your level. In math, it is important to screen ahead for > good teachers. Half are awful. Half awesome. > > Also be sure to read some of the best population modelers to see how the > techniques get used (MacArthur, Levins, Maynard Smith, Hal Caswell, and > others) > > Patrick Foley > [EMAIL PROTECTED] > > Malcolm McCallum wrote: > >>Hi, >>I have become interested in learning mathematical modelling because of = >>the strength it can add to your study. What key math courses beyone = >>calc I should one take to develop this skill. =20 >>=20 >>Malcolm L. McCallum
