Exploring Lake Victoria ecosystem functioning using the Atlantis modeling framework
journal contribution
posted on 2023-05-19, 07:08authored byNyamweya, C, Sturludottir, E, Tomasson, T, Elizabeth FultonElizabeth Fulton, Taabu-Munyaho, A, Njiru, M, Stefansson, G
Lake Victoria has experienced human induced pressures such as overfishing, introduction of alien species, increased eutrophication and climate change impacts. However, there is limited understanding of the system dynamics, major processes, drivers and responses to the changes. To address this challenge, we developed the first end-to-end whole ecosystem model (Atlantis) for the lake. The model is spatially resolved into 12 unique dynamic areas based on depth, species composition, physical-chemical characteristics and fisheries management zones. A total of 38 functional groups constitute the biological model. Four fishing fleets with different targeting options are simulated. Reliability of the model is confirmed by the good fit of simulations output to observational data sets. Herein, we describe the evolution of the biophysical system, illustrating how it responded to the aforementioned induced perturbations since 1958. The constructed virtual Lake Victoria ecosystem model provides a platform for exploring the impact of management interventions before actual implementation.
History
Publication title
Environmental Modelling and Software
Volume
86
Pagination
158-167
ISSN
1364-8152
Department/School
Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies
Publisher
Elsevier Sci Ltd
Place of publication
The Boulevard, Langford Lane, Kidlington, Oxford, England, Oxon, Ox5 1Gb
Rights statement
Copyright 2016 Elsevier Ltd
Repository Status
Restricted
Socio-economic Objectives
Assessment and management of terrestrial ecosystems