A generalized population dynamics model for reproductive interference with absolute density dependence.

Area of Science:

• Ecology
• Population Biology
• Evolutionary Biology

Background:

• Interspecific mating, or reproductive interference, influences population dynamics, species distribution, and abundance.
• Existing population dynamics models often oversimplify reproductive interference by assuming frequency dependence based on relative species abundances.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a more general population dynamics model that incorporates absolute density dependence of reproductive interference.
• To provide a more accurate framework for predicting population dynamics in the presence of reproductive interference.

Main Methods:

• Developed a novel population dynamics model focusing on absolute density dependence of reproductive interference.
• Assessed the model's utility using an empirical study with two seed beetle species (Callosobruchus maculatus and Callosobruchus chinensis).

Main Results:

• The new model generates diverse isocline shapes and predicts weaker interference at lower absolute densities.
• Empirical data showed reproductive interference intensified with increasing total beetle density, irrespective of species frequencies.
• The developed model demonstrated a better fit to empirical data compared to existing models.

Conclusions:

• Absolute population density, not solely relative species abundance, is a critical factor in reproductive interference.
• The novel model offers improved predictions for population dynamics and stable species coexistence under reproductive interference.