MICE Ecosystem Model

MICE (Models of Intermediate Complexity for Ecosystem assessments) ecosystem models offer a balanced approach to understanding ecological systems. They simplify complex ecological processes, such as predator-prey interactions and species competition, while still capturing the essential interactions needed to address specific research questions. MICE models aim to strike a balance between overly simple models that might miss important processes and highly detailed models that can be difficult to interpret and require a lot of data and computational power.

Real World Applications of MICE Models

One of the key advantages of MICE models is their adaptability to different ecosystems, making them efficient and practical for situations where data is limited. They focus on the most important ecological processes, making it easier to communicate the results to policymakers and fisheries managers. This simplicity makes MICE models especially useful in real-world conservation and management efforts. However, their straightforward approach means they may miss finer details or complex interactions that could be important in certain situations, and the results can be influenced by the choices made about which processes to include.
MICE Ecosystem Model

MICE within SURIMI: Complementing EwE

Within SURIMI, several simpler MICE models will be constructed from complex EwE (Ecopath with Ecosim) models to systematically assess their predictability. By simplifying the detailed EwE models into MICE frameworks, researchers can examine different levels of ecological complexity and explore how changes in model structure affect results. This approach allows for a clearer understanding of uncertainties in ecosystem assessments and provides valuable insights that are easier to interpret. In the context of SURIMI, MICE models play a crucial role in generating robust, accessible information that supports sustainable marine resource management, especially in situations where data is limited.

The SURIMI Toolbox

All SURIMI models, such as the MICE Ecosystem Model, will seamlessly integrate into the EU DTO, forming a comprehensive framework that combines social, ecological, and economic perspectives. These models will support data-driven decision-making for sustainable ocean management and resilient marine communities. While aligned with the EU DTO, they can also operate independently, extending their benefits beyond the framework.

All SURIMI Models

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