UCLA

Kokko and Ekman (2002) presented the first mathematical model that attempts to quantify the direct fitness benefits of dispersal and contrast them to the benefits of philopatry. The model is general and lends itself, with some specific adjustments, to application for various species. Here I present a transformation of this general mathematical model into a dynamic agent-based model (ABM). I explain how the mathematical model is used to inform the construction of the ABM and present the results of running the ABM across a wide variety of parameter values (a total of 21 different simulation scenarios). I discuss the ways in which the ABM replicates Kokko and Ekman's (2002) model's predictions, and the ways in which it does not. I suggest how to resolve these differences in future simulations. Finally, I explore what factors of white-faced capuchin (Cebus capucinus) life histories should be incorporated into the ABM in order to study the relative benefits of dispersal and philopatry in this species.