Predator interference and stability of predator-prey dynamics (Q2355789)

The paper deals with a predator-prey model \[ \frac{dN}{dt} =rN\left( 1-\frac{N}{K}\right) -Pf\left( N,P\right) ,\;\;\frac{dP}{dt} =ePf\left( N,P\right) -mP, \] with the predator functional response \(f\left( N,P\right) \) of a generalized Holling type II, \[ f\left( N,P\right) =\frac{\lambda\left( P\right) N}{1+h\lambda\left( P\right) N}, \] in which the encounter rate \(\lambda\) of predators with prey is a smooth decaying function of the predator density \(P.\) As an example, the function \[ \lambda\left( P\right) =\frac{\lambda_{0}}{\left( b+P\right) ^{\omega}}, \] where \(b,\) \(\lambda_{0},\) and \(\omega\) are positive constants, is considered. The authors focus their attention on coexistence equilibria of the system and characterize possible bifurcation scenarios. It is noted that variation of the parameter \(\omega\) representing the strength of predator interference in the predator encounter rate produces a family of functional responses rather than a single one. As the parameter increases, a number of dynamical transitions is observed. Namely, for low values of \(\omega,\) there exists a single low-density equilibrium which can be either stable or unstable, whereas for very large values of the parameter a unique stable high-density equilibrium occurs. Remarkably, for intermediate values of \(\omega,\) three coexisting equilibria emerge and the system may be in two alternative stable states which can either be both stable, or the lower one, due to a supercritical Hopf bifurcation, may be a limit cycle. In the latter case, the amplitude of the limit cycle increases threatening one or both interacting populations. This potential threat can be mitigated by an occurrence of a homoclinic bifurcation at an intermediate value of \(\omega\). This bifurcation destroys the stable limit cycle and makes the high-density coexistence equilibrium globally attractive. The authors argue that sufficiently strong predator interference may contribute to the stabilization of the system. In particular, it is noticed that hysteresis combined with the (dis)appearance of stable limit cycles yields an abrupt raise in predator and prey densities and enhanced persistence and resilience of the predator-prey system.