The Ricker Salmon Model (UMAP)

This module derives the model that describes the dynamics of a salmon population, which was developed by W.E. Ricker in 1954. It also shows how the model can be modified, and introduces the concept of maximum sustainable yield. It shows how difference equations may lead to periodic and chaotic behavior, and a computer program enables one to explore the period and chaos. The technique of dynamic programming is introduced to show how to maximize the income from fishing over a finite period.

Table of Contents:

INTRODUCTION

THE LIFE OF A SALMON

DERIVATION OF THE MODEL

PROPERTIES OF THE MODEL

DO THE DATA REALLY FIT THE MODEL?

CHAOTIC BEHAVIOR

COMPUTER SIMULATION

DYNAMIC PROGRAMMING

OTHER MODELS

REFERENCES

ANSWERS TO EXERCISES