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The effect of dispersal area on the extinction threshold

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  • Juhász, Róbert
  • Kovács, Igor D.
  • Oborny, Beáta

Abstract

The survival of populations hinges on their ability to offset local extinctions through new colonizations. The dispersal area (A) plays a crucial role in this process, as it determines the probability of finding colonizable vacant sites. We investigated the spatial colonization-extinction dynamics in a lattice model (a contact process), exploring various finite dispersal areas (A) and estimating the extinction threshold λE(A). Our results revealed a consistent λE(A) relationship, largely independent of lattice geometry (except for the smallest A). This λE(A) relationship obeyed universal scaling laws within two broad ranges of A. The scaling relations suggest considerable selection upon the increase of dispersal area, particularly at low A values. We discuss these findings in the broader context of the evolution of dispersal area.

Suggested Citation

  • Juhász, Róbert & Kovács, Igor D. & Oborny, Beáta, 2026. "The effect of dispersal area on the extinction threshold," Ecological Modelling, Elsevier, vol. 514(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:ecomod:v:514:y:2026:i:c:s0304380025004478
    DOI: 10.1016/j.ecolmodel.2025.111461
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    References listed on IDEAS

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