The role of Laternula elliptica in the energy budget of Potter Cove (King George Island, Antarctica): a mathematical approach.

MOMO, F., KOWALKE, J., SCHLOSS, I.R., MERCURI, G., FERREYRA, G.A

ECOLOGICAL MODELLING

Año: 2002 p. 43 - 51

0304-3800

In order to understand the role of the bivalve Laternula elliptica in the energy budget of Potter Cove ecosystem (Antarctica), two coupled mathematical models are presented. One is an Individual Based Model (IBM) that incorporates the known physiological and ecological characteristics of L. elliptica; the other is a synthetic Community Model (CM) that incorporates the main ecological compartments involved in the ecosystem dynamics. The IBM gives data for the L. elliptica population to input in the CM. The analysis of this last model, shows that L. elliptica is capable of maintaining a stable biomass despite the fluctuation of its energy sources. This bivalve may also compensates the environmental fluctuations increasing the energy flow to decomposers and deposit-feeders when the food is scarce (winter). The benthic system of Potter Cove may resists environmental fluctuations maintaining a stable structure, by the action of L. elliptica that appears as the key species of this ecosystem.