Asymptotic methods for modeling biological processes

Abstract

The technique of matched asymptotic expansions is discussed as a means for derivation of uniformly valid functions describing population processes. Use of the technique is then illustrated through quantitative description of a rate-temperature model, development of a functional model relating survival to attack density in bark beetles, and finally for derivation of a generalized competition function. It is concluded that the technique has potentially wide application for development of descriptive models in population ecology. © 1978 The Society of Population Ecology.