Description
The star-formation rate density (SFRD) as a function of stellar mass is a useful descriptive and diagnostic for galaxy evolution as it links the SFR and galaxy stellar mass functions (GSMFs). It is a more complete measurement in observations and thus can be used to quantify the low-mass galaxy population over a cosmological volume. The SFRD is ideally measured using direct tracers of star formation such as from H-alpha selected samples or even core-collapse supernovae. Recent measurements have enabled us to quantify the low-mass end of the mass function via the SFRD. A turnover in the number density of the GSMF of star-forming galaxies would likely show up in the SFRD. This can be tested in current and future simulations incorporating different feedback and dark-matter prescriptions.
