The Lotka-Volterra Equations

The Lotka-Volterra equations, also known as the predator-prey model, describe the dynamics between two species: one that hunts (predator) and one that is hunted (prey). They illustrate how the population of each species affects the other over time. When prey is abundant, predator numbers increase, but as predators become more numerous, the prey population declines. This, in turn, leads to decreased predator numbers due to lack of food. The equations help scientists understand ecological balance and population fluctuations, highlighting the interdependence of species within an ecosystem.