Exclusion Principles for Density-Dependent Discrete Pioneer-Climax Models

The ultimate dynamical result of an undisturbed pioneer-climax model is assumed by experimental scientists to be the exclusion of the pioneer species. Examples that illustrate stable coexistence in a pioneer-climax model with no isolated positive equilibria are given. Sufficient conditions are developed and used to confirm the pioneer exclusion in discrete pioneer-climax models. Other situations are possible in such models. In particular, a mutual exclusion principle is established as a mathematical theorem.