DISSERTATION RESEARCH: Evaluation of Ecological Network Analysis using Stable sotopes.

East Carolina University, Greenville NC

Investigators

Abstract

These PIs propose to evaluate Ecological Network Analysis (ENA), a modeling technique used to characterize trophic structure and to trace energy flow in ecosystems. The graduate student's research plan combines field and modeling activities to: (1) determine the sensitivity of ENA to detect changes in trophic relationships; (2) quantify the effects of uncertainty of input on model predictions; and (3) validate ENA using independent techniques. This award will facilitate and enhance the validation effort by providing support to analyze stable isotopes of carbon (13C) and sulfur (34S) to complement nitrogen isotope (15N) data that will be forthcoming from existing support. The combined use of N, C and S isotopes will allow for improved estimates of carbon sources used by different organisms and testing ("validation") of alternative ENA algorithms. The PIs hope to improve overall understanding of the utility of ENA for scientific and environmental management communities.