ISSN:
1572-9915
Keywords:
population model
;
simulation
;
energy
;
hierarchy
;
Quechua
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Biology
,
Energy, Environment Protection, Nuclear Power Engineering
,
Ethnic Sciences
Notes:
Abstract A human ecosystem model, NUÑOA, simulates the yearly energy balance of individuals, families, and extended families in a hypothetical farming and herding community of Quechua Indians in the high Andes. The yearly energy demand of each family, based on the caloric requirements of its members, is computed by simulation of agricultural and herding activities in response to stochastic environmental conditions. The family energy balance is used in determining births, deaths, marriages, and resource sharing. The model user has the opportunity to investigate the effect of changes in marriage patterns, resource sharing patterns, or subsistence activities on the ability of the human population to survive in the harsh Andean environment. Results from the model suggest that the substructuring of a population into extended families provides a mechanism for sheltering the population from control by exogenous influences. A population without substructures for resource sharing is shown to be unstable in such an unpredictable environment.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/BF00891743
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