MCE is an R package for modelling the vertical distribution of coral communities across depth gradients. MCE currently contains a light driven mechanistic model of the transition from shallow to mesophotic reefs. The goal for the future is to allow the research community to include additional mechanisms. These models can provide useful null hypotheses, and help us to quantify the importance of missing ecosystem level processes.
Installation
You can install the latest version of MCE from GitHub with:
remotes::install_github("Jack-H-Laverick/MCE")
Usage
The functions in MCE are broadly split into environmental functions, and community preferences. By combining the spatial gradient of an environmental factor with a relationship between the factor and coral communities, we can predict community zonation for a reef.
Future Expansion
The first version of MCE contains a simple light-relationship, including changes in water clarity and bathymetric shading. There are other enviornmental gradients and processes which could affect the vertical zonation of coral reef communities.
To read more on future opportunities for expansion, go to “Contribute”. Get in touch if your pet process is missing from the list, or if you think you have data to help characterise a new relationship.