Estudio de un modelo predador-presa con tres especies y capacidad de carga variable.

Abstract

This research focused on the study of an ecosystem in which two predators, Puma concolor and Lycalopex culpaeus, coexist and compete for common prey. This model also includes that the Puma preys on the Culpeo fox, which adds dynamic to the system. Differential equations were used to model the interaction between these three species, considering the variable carrying capacity of prey and assuming no migration or external predation. 256 simulations were performed using different parameter values, and various scenarios were found where both predator species became extinct, exclusive extinction of either the Puma or the Culpeo fox occurred, and situations where the excessive growth of a predator led to a decrease in prey population and therefore extinction of the entire system. The results showed that the consumption rate of predators is one of the factors that most regulate the system’s behavior. It was also observed that the change in the trend of carrying capacity affected the maximum densities of prey that could be achieved.