EcoTiM

What is it?

EcoTiM is a complex ecosystem model which dynamically simulates the cycling of organic carbon, nitrogen, phosphate silicate and oxygen within the back barrier system of the East Frisian island Spiekeroog.

The model has the capability to resolve the seasonal cycles as well as tidal processes. It consists of several interlinked modules describing the pelagic and benthic foodweb, the microbial loop including the distribution of detritus.

The description of the biochemical and ecological processes bases mainly on ERSEM.

How does it work?

The model is implemented with a semi Euler-Lagrangian scheme. Lagrangian water bodies -called voxels- move along a surface velocity field. The whole ecosystem model is calculated in each voxel. The consideration of finite water bodies allows the mass conserving coupling to the benthic system.

The water bodies interact with the benthic system below their actual position. The area of interaction with the benthic system depends on the actual water level. The benthic system is represented by different sediment areas - called boxes- defined according to topography and porosity.

How is it forced?

The boundary conditions are given by the Continental Coastal Application of North Sea application of ERSEM called COCOA. The physical forcing is given by physical forcing is given by