Within-generational and diversity-dependent effects in an individual-based model of predator-prey interaction

In this paper we report the use of an individual-based model of predator-prey interaction to explore the effects of "within generational" and 'between generational' updating of a system level variable. We also report the importance of diversity within the simulated populations. Our findings support those of Grimm and Uchmánski [1994] in regard to the importance of the timing of system level variables, and support Grimm and Uchmánski and others in regard to the importance of the level of diversity across the population. The significance of these findings is emphasized by the fundamental differences between our model and that of Grimm and Uchmánski in regard to the assumptions made about resource flow in the system.