Population dynamics of a stoichiometric aquatic tri-trophic level model with fear effect

Abstract

In this paper, a stoichiometric aquatic tri-trophic level model is proposed and analyzed, which incorporates the effect of light and phosphorus, as well as the fear effect in predator–prey interactions. The analysis of the model includes the dissipativity and the existence and stability of equilibria. The influence of environmental factors and fear effect on the dynamics of the system is particularly investigated. The key findings reveal that the coexistence of populations is positively influenced by an appropriate level of light intensity and/or the dissolved phosphorus input concentration; however, excessive levels of phosphorus input can disrupt the system, leading to chaotic behaviors. Furthermore, it is found that the fear effect can stabilize the system and promote the chances of population coexistence.