ISSN:
1572-8358
Keywords:
Competition theory
;
Volterra
;
information in competition
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Biology
Notes:
Abstract Reconsideration of the logistic equation and of its expansion to the special and general Volterra competition equations in terms of mass/energy in phase-space, shows that information on the phase-spatial conditions of resource and consumers determines specific population parameters which, in turn, decide on coexistence and extinction. Thus, introduction ofInformation as a separate and independent biophysical parameter, in analogy, and in addition, to Force in Classical Physics, is necessary. This allows for quantification of informational effects on resource flows and population numbers. As such, different population growth dN/dt during a competitive exclusion process, is theeffect of competition, and not itscause. It is found that species recognition of “self” and ignorance of other consumers and of their phase-spatial conditions of resource supplies stabilizes coexistence, while excess information on competitors and on resource supplies destabilizes community structure. These findings are particularly relevant for the speciesHomo sapiens. Among other, apparently disparate population phenomena, Information as a causative parameter also resolves the controversy of “complexity and stability” in biological systems.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/BF00712171
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