= 3 Introductory material: Ecosim =

Ecosim provides a dynamic simulation capability at the ecosystem level, with key initial parameters inherited from the base Ecopath model.

This chapter contains details of the theory underpinning the function of Ecosim: [[An overview of Ecosim.htm|An overview of Ecosim]]; [[Ecosim basic.htm|Ecosim basic]]; [[Vulnerabilities in Ecosim.htm|Vulnerabilities in Ecosim]]; [[Dealing with dynamic instability.htm|Dealing with dynamic instability in Ecosim/Ecospace]]; [[Predicting consumption.htm|Predicting consumption]]; [[Foraging time and predation.htm|Foraging time and predation risk]]; [[Time series fitting in Ecosim.htm|Time series fitting in Ecosim]]; [[Hints for fitting models to.htm|Hints for fitting models to time series]]; [[Effect of P B Z and vulnerability.htm|Effect of P/B (Z) and vulnerability for time series fitting]]; [[Predator satiation and handling.htm|Predator satiation and handling time effects]]; [[Modelling switching behaviour.htm|Modelling switching behaviour in Ecosim]]; [[Compensatory mechanisms.htm|Compensatory mechanisms]]; [[Using Ecosim to study compensation.htm|Using Ecosim to study compensation in recruitment relationships]]; [[Compensatory growth.htm|Compensatory growth (overall P/B)]];[[Compensatory natural mortality.htm| Compensatory natural mortality]]; [[Linking mediation and time.htm|Linking mediation and time forcing functions to trophic interaction rates]]; [[Primary production.htm|Primary production]]; [[Nutrient cycling and nutrient.htm|Nutrient cycling and nutrient limitation in Ecosim]]; [[Density dependent changes.htm|Density-dependent changes in catchability]]; [[Modelling effort dynamics.htm|Modelling effort dynamics]]; [[Using Ecosim for Stock Reduction.htm|Using Ecosim for Stock Reduction Analysis]]; [[Hatchery populations in Ecosim.htm|Hatchery populations in Ecosim]]; and [[Parameter sensitivity.htm|Parameter sensitivity]].

See [[Using Ecosim. Part 1 Ecosim inputs.htm|Ecosim inputs]] and [[Using Ecosim. Part 2 Ecosim outputs.htm|Ecosim outputs]] for links to instructions for using Ecosim.