The DivGame Simulator: a stochastic cellular automata model of rainforest dynamics

The dynamic properties of a stochastic cellular automata model for rainforest dynamics are studied by computer simulation. This model integrates forest growth, species diversity and canopy gap formation and expansion. It is able to account for a wide spectrum of field observations. In particular it suggests two mechanisms controlling species abundances in rich ecosystems: immigration and internal population dynamics. According to the model, rarity and species richness are both consequence of internal dynamics in ecosystems driven by low immigration rates. Some theoretical consequences are then outlined.