Analysis and parallel implementation of an individually based algae model

The focus of this research is the analysis and parallel implementation of an individually based algae population model. Analysis included examination of the sensitivity of the population's dynamics to increases of 25% and 50% and decreases of 25% and 50% of 58 of the model's parameters from a reference set of values under three different nutrient limiting conditions. Results indicate that the most sensitive parameters are those either directly or indirectly associated with the construction of protein. Analysis of the model also included examination of the influence of fluctuating temperatures on uptake of nutrients. Results indicate that while external nutrients are abundant, temperature influences the system, but when external nutrients become limiting, temperature effects diminish.

Parallel implementation included analysis of a pre-exisiting algae code in order to identify avenues for parallelization. To accomodate identified parallelization avenues, the original code was restructured and subsequently parallelized. Results from the parallel model were then compared with results from the sequential model to determine accuracy, and speed-up issues were addressed. It was determined that the parallel model, in its current form, offers no advantage over the sequential model.