Dynamic complexities in a mutual interference host–parasitoid model

The effect of parasitoid interference on a host–parasitoid model is investigated qualitatively. Mutual interference of parasitoids is a form of density dependence that is generally thought to have a stabilizing effect. Here we show that mutual interference not only can stabilize the dynamics but may strongly destabilize as well. Many forms of complex dynamics are observed, including pitchfork bifurcation with period-doubling cascade, attractor crises, chaotic bands with narrow or wide periodic windows, multiple attractors with fractal basins of attraction, intermittent chaos, and supertransient behavior. All these phenomena should be kept in mind when examining and interpreting the dynamics of populations.