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Lotka-Volterra Predator-Prey Model

The Lotka-Volterra model describes the dynamics of biological systems in which two species interact, one as a predator and the other as prey. This interactive simulation allows you to explore how different parameters affect the population dynamics over time.

Model Parameters

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Mathematical Model

The Lotka-Volterra equations are a pair of first-order nonlinear differential equations:

dx/dt = αx - βxy
dy/dt = γxy - δy

Where:

  • x = prey population
  • y = predator population
  • α = prey growth rate
  • β = predation rate
  • γ = predator efficiency (conversion of prey to predators)
  • δ = predator death rate

These equations create oscillatory dynamics where predator and prey populations cycle in a characteristic pattern.