What contribution can modeling make to help manage Japanese knotweed?

Abstract

This article aims to present a scientific approach based on the use of mathematical models to answer an ecological question. In a first part, we describe the general approach in modeling and present different models applied to Japanese knotweed and their relative contributions. Then, we describe the model we propose to describe the growth of a knotweed patch subjected to mowing, as well as its placement with respect to existing models. Finally, we present the types of answers that the study of this model could bring.