Abstract

Citation

Researchers should cite this work as follows:

• Chivers, W. J. (2023). 2014-Chivers-EtAl-Predator-prey systems depend on a prey refuge. SIMIODE, QUBES Educational Resources. doi:10.25334/40E9-KB85

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Article Context

Description

Chivers WJ , Gladstone W , Herbert RD , and Fuller MM. 2014. Predator-prey systems depend on a prey refuge. J Theor Biol. 7(360): 271-278.

See https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25058806/ . Accessed 30 March 2023.

Abstract:
Models of near-exclusive predator-prey systems such as that of the Canadian lynx and snowshoe
hare have included factors such as a second prey species, a Holling Type II predator response and climatic or seasonal effects to reproduce sub-sets of six signature patterns in the empirical data.

We present an agent-based model which does not require the factors or constraints of previous models to reproduce all six patterns in persistent populations. Our parsimonious model represents a generalised predator and prey species with a small prey refuge. The lack of the constraints of previous models, considered to be important for those models, casts doubt on the current hypothesised mechanisms of exclusive predator-prey systems. The implication for management of the lynx, a protected species, is that maintenance of an heterogeneous environment offering natural refuge areas for the hare is the most important factor for the conservation of this species.

Keywords: individual-based model; lynx–hare system; Mustela-Clethrionomys system; pattern-oriented, predator-prey, refuge, modelling; Prey-switching; lynx; rabbit; hare