ECOBAS -: A tool to develop ecosystem models exemplified by the shallow lake model EMMO

The modelling and simulation tool ECOBAS was extended in order to include special features supporting the development of ecological models. The Graphical Model Editor allows the connection of at least 2 modules in order to build a whole model to run simulations. With the ECOBAS simulation system the model can be tested extensively in order to find appropriate parameter sets (Parameter analysis and Parameter estimation) and to identify critical parameters (Sensitivity analysis). The Interaction Analysis shows the internal dependencies of a model. ECOBAS integrates the steps of ecological modelling and creates well readable and complete documentations within one working step, supports modularization of models and the user is rid of the technical and numerical aspects of modelling. Hence ECOBAS is setting up complete, consistent and syntactical correct models. All new features of the ECOBAS-system will be introduced by applying it on the existing ecosystem model EMMO. (C) 2008 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.