Challenges of living in the harsh environments: A mathematical modeling study

摘要

We propose and analyze a mathematical model, which mimics community dynamics of plants and animals in harsh environments. The mathematical model exploits type IV functional responses whose idiosyncrasies have been recognized only in recent years. The interaction of the middle predator with the top predator is cast into Leslie–Gower scheme. Linear and non-linear stability analyses are performed to get an idea of the stability behavior of the model food chain. It turns out that carrying capacity of the prey and the immunity parameter of the middle predator are two crucial parameters governing the model. Availability of alternative food options to the generalist predator also plays a key role in deciding the model dynamics.Simulation runs performed on this model provide insight into population dynamics of monkeys of macaque family found in northern Japan. These monkeys are social animals which reproduce sexually. The characteristic feature of the model dynamics is that the generalist predator (macaque monkeys) is able to avoid impending extinction frequently and recovers at a rate which falsify threats from exogenous external forces; extreme weather conditions, etc.