A Gentle Introduction to Physiologically Structured Population Models

Abstract

This chapter is intended as a gentle introduction to models of physiologically structured populations, as developed by Metz and Diekmann (1986) (hereafter, PSP models; the origin of the adjective “physiologically structured” is described in Section 2 after some necessary definitions). You will need a basic knowledge of mathematical modeling but no familiarity with PSP models or the ensuing partial differential equations. My aim is to equip you with enough skills to be able to use moderately complex PSP models for specific biological applications. Hence, I emphasize the formulation of the models, the biological interpretation of the equations, and the tools for studying the models. The mathematical background of the modeling framework and the justification of the equations are discussed only when necessary for a better understanding of the biological aspects of the models.