A mathematical model of two-trophic-level aquatic systems with two complementary nutrients (Q1089285)

A model of phytoplankton, zooplankton, and two complementary nutrients, nitrogen and phosphorus, that simulates the dynamics of their interactions in lakes or oceans is presented. The paper studies a mathematical model, based on a modified Michaelis-Menten kinetics, for the phytoplankton uptake of the two nutrients, and a herbivore-density dependent grazing rate. Given the parameters of the system, we answer the basic questions about persistence, extinction, and limiting behavior of the microorganisms. The analytical studies demonstrate the role of the total system nutrients in governing system behavior and in turn in governing water quality control. Features of the model system include behavior determined solely by the total system nutrients, nitrogen and phosphorus. A conclusion robust for the model is the coupling of nitrogen and phosphorus cycles in more realistic dynamics that increase the effectiveness of water quality-control programs.