Numerical modelling
We use a range of computer models to improve our understanding
of the marine environment and study the impacts of human activity
and climate change.
They run on PCs, Linux platforms, or our high-performance
computing cluster, which can be used to create intensive
simulations. Our models are validated using historical
data and field observations from a variety of sources. The range of
models we use are detailed below.
Hydrodynamical models
A suite of hydrodynamical models are available, either for
stand-alone use or to provide the underlying physics for other
models.
A one-dimensional vertical water-column model is used primarily
as a test bed to provide flow fields and density structure for the
development and set-up of biogeochemical and transport models.
Three-dimensional models are used to assess realistic
hydrodynamical conditions in shelf seas and estuaries. They are
also used in fisheries research and scenario-testing, for example
to gauge the influence of climate change and
human interventions.
Biogeochemical models
These models - in tandem with hydrodynamical models - are used
to study the dynamics of the main nutrients and the lower trophic
levels of marine shelf-sea ecosystems.
Depending on their complexity, they include nutrient and carbon
cycling, pelagic phyto- and zooplankton functional groups and their
dynamics, oxygen concentrations, and benthic organisms.
Emergency-response models
Rapid emergency response models are used to provide advice to
customers in emergency situations oil or chemical spills.
These models work out local hydrodynamics from an existing
database and allow for calculations within a minute on a modern PC.
They are an ideal tool for rapid scenario-testing to provide quick
advice on containment measures.
Risk-assessment models
We have developed several risk-assessment models including one
to assess eutrophication in estuarine and
coastal waters.
A box model is used to calculate phytoplankton yield (in terms
of biomass) from nutrient inputs.
The live fish-movement model carries out calculations of the
spread of fish disease between freshwater hatcheries and fish
farms. This model aids management decisions during disease-outbreak
incidents.
Transport models
Our individual behaviour models track particles and use output
from one of the 3D hydrodynamical models. They can simulate the
dispersal of marine organisms' eggs or larvae, including
growth, mortality and active behaviour. These models are under
active development and are frequently used to support fisheries
advice.
For more information about our range of numerical modelling
and the services we provide, please contact us.