Predator-Prey Model
The Predator-Prey Model is a mathematical framework used to describe the dynamics between two species: predators and their prey. It illustrates how the population sizes of these species affect each other over time. When prey populations increase, predators have more food, leading to a rise in their numbers. Conversely, if predators become too numerous, they can reduce the prey population, which may eventually lead to a decline in their own numbers.
This model is often represented by the Lotka-Volterra equations, which capture the cyclical nature of these interactions. It helps ecologists understand population dynamics and the balance of ecosystems, providing insights into conservation efforts and wildlife management.