WP4: An individual-based model for predicting eco-evolutionary dynamic in contaminated soils
Rationale: Individual-based models (IBM) are useful tools allowing to predict long-term outcomes on population dynamics and soil functions by pulling over various data sources. The extensive empirical data gathered in WP1-3 will be mobilized into an IBM allowing to track earthworms’ activity, growth and reproduction in a simulated environment. Incorporating heritability in life-history and behavioral traits will allow for selection to occur. The IBM will predict under which conditions tolerance to pesticides evolves, how fast it does so and at what cost for key ecosystem services.
Approach: The DEB-IBM will simulate a population of earthworm evolving in a soil matrix under contaminant stress and various pre-identified scenario. This WP will allow to simulate the effects of pesticide exposure over multiple generations for a range of field-realistic exposure scenarios.
