Effect of resource subsidies on predator-prey population dynamics: a mathematical model

    Authors

    A. L. Nevai;R. A. Van Gorder

    Comments

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    Abbreviated Journal Title

    J. Biol. Dyn.

    Keywords

    predator-prey; resource subsidy; population dynamics; patch model; stable equilibrium; arctic fox; FOOD-WEB STABILITY; WESTERN HUDSON-BAY; APPARENT COMPETITION; TROPHIC; CASCADES; MEDIATED COEXISTENCE; 2-PATCH ENVIRONMENTS; ECOLOGICAL TIME; SEA-ICE; COMMUNITIES; SYSTEMS; Ecology; Mathematical & Computational Biology

    Abstract

    The influence of a resource subsidy on predator-prey interactions is examined using a mathematical model. The model arises from the study of a biological system involving arctic foxes (predator), lemmings (prey), and seal carcasses (subsidy). In one version of the model, the predator, prey and subsidy all occur in the same location; in a second version, the predator moves between two patches, one containing only the prey and the other containing only the subsidy. Criteria for feasibility and stability of the different equilibrium states are studied both analytically and numerically. At small subsidy input rates, there is a minimum prey carrying capacity needed to support both predator and prey. At intermediate subsidy input rates, the predator and prey can always coexist. At high subsidy input rates, the prey cannot persist even at high carrying capacities. As predator movement increases, the dynamic stability of the predator-prey-subsidy interactions also increases.

    Journal Title

    Journal of Biological Dynamics

    Volume

    6

    Issue/Number

    2

    Publication Date

    1-1-2012

    Document Type

    Article

    Language

    English

    First Page

    891

    Last Page

    922

    WOS Identifier

    WOS:000310592600039

    ISSN

    1751-3758

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