On the equivalent classification of three-dimensional competitive Atkinson/Allen models relative to the boundary fixed points (Q2515677)

The authors investigate the dynamics on the carrying simplex of the 3-dimensional competitive Atkinson/Allen models relative to the boundary fixed points. They first prove a theorem on the sum of the indices of the fixed points on the carrying simplex. Based on the index formula, they find a total of 33 stable equivalence classes. Among these classes, the compact limit sets of 18 classes are all fixed points. Ten other classes do not admit Hopf bifurcation at the positive fixed point. For the two classes which admit Hopf bifurcation, illustrative examples of one-parameter family of systems are given to show the existence of attracting closed invariant curves as well as the existence of heteroclinic cycles. Interesting open problems, such as whether there exists a center on the carrying simplex or quasiperiodic curves, are raised for further investigation.