Applying difference equations to wolf predation
Parameters for generalized Lotka-Volterra equations, expressed as difference equations, have been estimated from actual data on wolves and their prey. The functional response is represented by a single constant, while the numerical response is expressed as a ratio-dependent limitation on predator ab...
| Published in: | Canadian Journal of Zoology |
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| Main Author: | |
| Format: | Article in Journal/Newspaper |
| Language: | English |
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Canadian Science Publishing
1998
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| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | http://dx.doi.org/10.1139/z97-184 http://www.nrcresearchpress.com/doi/pdf/10.1139/z97-184 |
| Summary: | Parameters for generalized Lotka-Volterra equations, expressed as difference equations, have been estimated from actual data on wolves and their prey. The functional response is represented by a single constant, while the numerical response is expressed as a ratio-dependent limitation on predator abundance. Parameters for the Lotka-Volterra equations were estimated by multiple-regression fits to data on moose (Alces alces) and wolves (Canis lupus) on Isle Royale, and from other sources. Observed prey-predator ratios are highly variable, but much of the variability may arise from nonequilibrium conditions. A multiple-prey model has been developed by assuming that utilization rates vary in proportion to relative current biomass. If analyses are to be useful, the dynamic, nonlinear nature of predator-prey systems requires that a system of equations be developed, along with extensive series of observations of actual abundances of predator and prey. |
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