Do individual differences in resource intakes without monopolization cause population stability and persistence?

Abstract

A theoretical model of population dynamics in discrete time units is investigated with the following assumptions: (1) resource partitioning among individuals is unequal, with different degrees of inequality, and (2) scramble competition without a monopolization of resources by stronger individuals occurs. To describe unequal resource partitioning the simpleest possible linear function is assumed, with a parameter describing inequality in resource partitioning. The model of population dynamics in which this parameter is allowed to vary shows that while an increase of inequality has some effect on the population stability and persistence, this effect is a minor one when compared with contest competition (with monopolization). The latter phenomenon always brings about both population stability and persistence.