An evaluation of Lotka-Volterra predator-prey model

Abstract

Many interesting dynamics of biological systems, more often than not, involve interactions between species. One of such interactions exists between predators and prey; and the result of this interaction plays a significant role in the dynamics of their respective populations. One of the earliest and simplest mathematical models to describe this interaction is the Lotka-Volterra model. In this paper, we review the derivation, evaluation and analysis of the Lotka-Volterra model, with a view to bringing to fore its realism, effectiveness and possible shortcomings; as well as suggesting areas of further improvement in the model.