SEDL / STP / STP1317-EB / STP12234S

Modeling the Effect of Toxicants on the Parameters of Dynamic Energy Budget Models

Muller, EB
Postdoctoral research scientist and professor, Evolution and Marine Biology, University of California, Santa Barbara, CA

Nisbet, RM
Postdoctoral research scientist and professor, Evolution and Marine Biology, University of California, Santa Barbara, CA

Pages: 11    Published: Jan 1997

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Abstract

Toxicants negatively affect the rates of growth and reproduction of organisms. Dynamic energy budget models offer a convenient mathematical framework to describe growth and reproduction by individuals. Since these models take into account the lipid content of an animal, the accumulation of toxicants is easily incorporated. This paper deals with the subsequent effects of toxicants on growth and reproduction. We argue that the concept of non-competitive inhibition is applicable for toxicants that increase maintenance demands and reduce assimilation. In this way, energy investment in growth and reproduction are indirectly reduced.