ABSTRACT
This chapter presents an introduction to the concepts and techniques used in the simulation of agricultural and biological systems with a few examples that demonstrate the approach. Applied models of biological systems evolve as understanding is improved; scientific modeling is a highly effective method for helping researchers improves their understanding of biological systems. Simulation based on quantitative models of biological processes and their interactions can provide considerable insight into the behavior of living systems and into ways of managing these systems to achieve specific goals. Simulation involves the development of a model and its use in gaining insight about the system itself or its management. The process of developing a model of a system is different from and a prerequisite to computer simulation. Computer simulation includes the processes necessary for operationalizing or solving a model to mimic real system behavior.
