Predator–Prey Dynamics: free biology simulation
Lotka–Volterra model: rabbit and fox populations rise and fall in linked cycles.
▶ Open the simulationFree, no sign-up. Works on phones, tablets and laptops.
The science
When prey is plentiful, predators thrive and their numbers rise. More predators eat more prey, so the prey population falls, and then predators starve. The two populations rise and fall in linked cycles, with the predator peak lagging behind the prey peak.
Lotka–Volterra equations
Things to try
- Raise the prey birth rate and watch the cycles grow.
- Start with very few foxes.
- Watch the fox peak lag behind the rabbit peak.
Topics covered
lotka volterra ecology population cycles foxes rabbits
How to use it
Open the simulation, then change the experiment live with the sliders, checkboxes and buttons in the side panel. Drag objects on screen where it makes sense, and use Pause, Step, Speed and Reset in the bottom bar to study every moment.
Frequently asked questions
What does the Predator–Prey Dynamics simulation show?
When prey is plentiful, predators thrive and their numbers rise. More predators eat more prey, so the prey population falls, and then predators starve. The two populations rise and fall in linked cycles, with the predator peak lagging behind the prey peak.
What is the key equation?
Lotka–Volterra equations
Is the Predator–Prey Dynamics simulation free?
Yes. It runs free in any web browser on phones, tablets and laptops, with no sign-up or download.