Abstract:
Based on the Kolmogorov “predator–prey” model, a system is proposed for describing the dynamics of three species: the prey $x(t)$, the predator $y(t)$ that consumes it, and the superpredator $z(t)$ that feeds on both species. The nonlinear dependence of the growth rates of all three species on the number of prey is taken into account; the right-hand side of the first-order differential equation system contains 10 real coefficients. The conditions on the superpredator parameters under which the system is cosymmetric and a one-parameter family of solutions to the differential equations arises are analytically found. Multistability is realized in the form of families of equilibria and periodic solutions (limit cycles). Each solution can be obtained from the initial data belonging to the corresponding basin of attraction. The presence of zero in the stability spectrum of equilibria and two multipliers close to one for limit cycles confirms the theoretical conclusions about the existence of a continuum of solutions. When the relationships on the parameters of the system are violated, families of solutions are destroyed and a finite number of isolated equilibria and limit cycles arise. In such a situation, the dynamic process of establishing equilibrium or reaching an isolated limit cycle can take a long time. In this case, the dynamics occur in the vicinity of the family that disappeared as a result of the destruction of cosymmetry, i. e., the system's memory of the family is preserved.
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