Examination of a smallest CELSS (microcosm) through an individual-based model simulation

Area of Science:

• Ecology
• Systems Biology
• Astrobiology

Background:

• Understanding space environment effects on ecosystems is crucial for space utilization.
• Previous research focused on individual organisms, neglecting multi-species interactions.
• Microcosms offer a model for studying complex, multi-species ecosystems.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate universal characteristics of ecosystems using a minimal food chain model.
• To understand the network dynamics of a closed ecosystem.
• To develop and validate a simulation model for ecosystem structures like colonies.

Main Methods:

• A closed ecosystem model with Chlorella (producer), bacteria (decomposer), and rotifer (consumer) was established.
• An individual-based model was employed, applying local rules for species interactions.
• The model's predictions were compared against experimental results from terrestrial environments.

Main Results:

• The individual-based model successfully reproduced colony formation, an observed ecological structure.
• The model accurately simulated population transitions and ratios, aligning with experimental data.
• This approach overcomes limitations of traditional models in capturing spatial structures and heterogeneity.

Conclusions:

• Individual-based models are effective for simulating ecosystem spatial structures and emergent properties.
• The study provides a validated framework for understanding ecosystem dynamics, applicable to space environments.
• This research contributes to the development of sustainable closed ecosystems for space exploration.