Mathematical modelling of spatial plant patterns in a sub-Antarctic island

Overview

https://research.qut.edu.au/environment/https://research.qut.edu.au/environment/

Various spatial patterns naturally emerge in ecology.  These include stripes, spots, hexagons, and donuts, to name just a few. However, it can be puzzling to figure out how these patterns form.

Systems of partial differential equation models can be used to simulate these patterns, and thereby provide ecologists with testable hypotheses for how these patterns formed.

Research activities

In this project, you will use partial differential equation models to investigate a spatial pattern in ecology that is not yet explained: terraces (stripes) of a threatened plant species growing along the hillside of a sub-Antarctic island.

This project will give you experience at applying models to real-world contexts, crossing the disciplines of mathematics of ecology. There will also be an opportunity to collaborate with ecologists from external institutions (if of interest).

Outcomes

The project aims to use partial differential equation models to explain how terraces (stripes) of a threatened plant species growing along the hillside of a sub-Antarctic island naturally form. Model scenarios can then be run to identify how this plant species' distribution might improve or decline in the future.

Skills and experience

You will have

• an interest in using and coding partial differential equation models
• experience in coding in MATLAB, Python, or another suitable mathematical programming language
• a desire to apply your mathematics and coding skills to address ecological questions
• an interest in visualising your results for a general audience, including creating images and videos of your model simulations.

Keywords

• mathematics
• ecology
• coding
• spatial pattern formation
• PDEs

Contact

Contact the supervisor for more information.