Modelling of growth of an oligochaete on activated sludge
Ratsak, C. H., Kooijman, S.A.L.M. and Kooi, B.W. 1993.
Modelling of growth of an oligochaete on activated sludge.
Water Res. 27: 739 - 747
Abstract
A dynamic energy-budget model (DEB model) was extended to describe the
growth of Nais elinguis, a common oligochaete species frequently
occurring in sewage treatment plants. Nais elinguis reproduces
asexually by dividing into an anterior and a posterior naidid. The
daughter naidids initially have different growth rates due to
differences in energy reserves. The fit of the model showed a good
description of the length measurements. The parameters of the model,
such as maintenance rate coefficient and energy conductance, which
represent physiological features of the organisms, facilitate insight
into the processes underlying naidid growth. A numerical method was
developed to predict asexual reproduction. The presented model is a
first step towards a more comprehensive knowledge and modelling of
organisms in an activated sludge plant and is therefore interesting
from a wastewater management point of view.