Discrete Stochastic Models in Continuous Time for Ecology

Abstract

This article shows how to specify and construct a discrete, stochastic, continuous-time model specifically for ecological systems. The model is more broad than typical chemical kinetics models in two ways. First, using time-dependent hazard rates simplifies the process of making models more faithful. Second, the state of the system includes individual traits and use of environmental resources. The models defined here focus on taking survival analysis of observations in the field and using the measured hazard rates to generate simulations which match exactly what was measured.