Predator-Prey Models

Part 4: Varying the Parameters

Recall that the Lotka-Volterra Predator-Prey Model has the form

where a, b, c, and p are positive constants. In this part of the module, we explore how the solutions change if one of the parameters is changed. To determine the significance of each change, you may use your choice of graphical representation -- more than one, if you prefer.

1. How do you think the solution will change if a is increased? Increase a by 50%, and describe the change you see.
2. Return a to its original value. How do you think the solution will change if b is increased? Double b, and describe the change you see.
3. Return b to its original value. How do you think the solution will change if c is increased? Double c, and describe the change you see. Does this make sense biologically?
4. Return c to its original value. How do you think the solution will change if p is increased? Increase p by 50%, and describe the change you see. Does this make sense biologically?

Return all parameters to their original values before you go on to the next part.