Temperature Variation and Competition: Influences on Pest Control and Mosquito Vectors

The distribution and interactions of species are significantly influenced by temperature. Ecological dynamics are also impacted by competition. This is due to variations in thermal tolerances of different species. Temperature along with competitions can affect the competitive abilities of species, leading to changes in communities and ecosystems. To predict these interactions under different climatic scenarios, mathematical models are useful. These models help us understand ecological dynamics and anticipate the impact of temperature and competition on populations. Therefore, we are interested in exploring the effects of temperature and competition in population ecology through mathematical modeling. This dissertation includes two individual studies. We use different mathematical models tailored to each study and conduct a comprehensive analysis. The first study is about predator-prey dynamics among arthropods (aphids, beetles, and spiders) in an agricultural field. We employ an optimization approach to identify the most efficient predator community that can suppress the average aphid population in the fields. We optimize the predator community under collected field temperatures and also under increased temperatures as an example of global climate change. In the second study, we examine larval competition between two types of Aedes mosquitoes, Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus. We analyze different outcomes of larval competition, including coexistence or dominance of species under varying temperatures and species specific densities. To quantify the competition strength of the larvae, we conduct least-squares parameter estimation and fit the model to empirical data. Our research provides valuable insights into ecological dynamics under the influence of temperature and competition.

Embargo status: Restricted until 06/2027. To request the author grant access, click on the PDF link to the left.