The dynamics of collembolan populations: a matrix model of single species population growth

Abstract

The construction of a matrix model for the growth of populations of soil Collembola is described. Data from four replicate cultures of each of two species kept under laboratory conditions were modelled in the form of difference equations, which took into account the size structure of the populations. These equations were set up so as to effect a Leslie-type matrix model. The effect of density upon population growth rate was incorporated into the model in the form of a density-related function for fecundity.The success of the modelling procedures was varied with some of the models accurately predicting both the pattern of population growth and the population sizes at successive time intervals, whilst others only showed the trends. The deterministic models of each of the replicates for each species were combined to produce a stochastic model for that species. These also met with mixed success. The equilibrium values for the deterministic models were calculated and their stability properties examined. The models for both species predict a stable equilibrium approached by a series of damped oscillations.