McComedy: A user-friendly tool for next-generation individual-based modeling of microbial consumer-resource systems

Area of Science:

• Microbial Ecology
• Computational Biology
• Ecological Modeling

Background:

• Individual-based modeling (IBM) is crucial for understanding microbial community dynamics.
• Next-generation IBMs, based on mechanistic principles, accurately reflect ecological processes.
• Current IBM implementation is complex and time-consuming, limiting broader adoption.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce McComedy, a novel tool for developing next-generation individual-based models.
• To simplify the creation of models for microbial consumer-resource systems.
• To facilitate broader application of advanced ecological modeling in research and education.

Main Methods:

• McComedy utilizes a building-block approach, combining pre-implemented physical and biological process modules.
• The tool is designed for flexible and efficient development of IBMs.
• Model validation involved reproducing and extending results from two existing studies.

Main Results:

• McComedy successfully captures essential dynamics of microbial consumer-resource systems.
• The tool reproduced findings from two distinct literature studies.
• The software facilitates the creation of complex ecological models.

Conclusions:

• McComedy offers a versatile and accessible platform for developing next-generation IBMs.
• The tool can enhance the understanding of microbial ecology.
• McComedy supports both scientific research and educational purposes.