A discrete-time model for cryptic oscillations in predator-prey systems (Q1045866)

The notion of ``\textit{cryptic oscillations in predator-prey systems}'' defines a situation when -- in such systems of the predator-prey type -- the predator population oscillates widely while the total prey population has only small-amplitude oscillations in phase opposition to those of the predator. Two models are proposed:{ \parindent5mm \begin{itemize}\item[1.] A general model (Section 2), using two prey species with different palatability and one predator species. It is described in continuous, discrete and ultra discrete (cellular automaton) forms, with some numerical simulations for pointing out the phenomenon of cryptic oscillations. \item[2.] An improved model (Section 4), focused on the description of the transient phase of predator-prey oscillations, when some chaotic bursts recur periodically. The authors' opinion is ``\textit{these bursts are most probably a feature of the model used and do not necessarily correspond to a behavior of the real system}''. \end{itemize}} The paper is interesting, easy to be followed, pedagogically constructed. All information is described in detail, and many examples are provided. Personally I did not understood the importance of the cellular automata in the construction of both models, because only the first two variants are analysed and used in the simulations.