An ecosystem model is an abstract, usually mathematical, representation of an ecological system, which is studied to gain understanding of the real system. ERSEM addresses biogeochemical and ecological systems in many applications in global regional seas and more recently the global ocean, engaging in a range of problem solving, predictive and impact studies. PML was part of the original consortium which developed ERSEM, and has since continued to develop the original model, finding applications in a number of fields. ERSEM is currently one of the most complex lower trophic level models in use and its philosophy is to include all processes that may significantly influence ecosystem dynamics.
Funder: NERC
Dr Jorn Bruggeman, Dr Luca Polimene, Professor Icarus Allen
A paper published with PML scientists outlines the new, increased capability of ‘ERSEM’, currently the only marine ecosystem model that covers the plankton food-web, microbial processes, the benthic ecosystem, and the carbonate system.