Predator–Prey Population Lab

Science · predator-prey-population · Middle School and High School

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About this simulation

Compare starting populations in a closed ecosystem. Prey have limited resources; predators depend on prey. Continuous values represent a model, not counts of individual animals.

What students can explore

Use carrying capacity 100 and compare starting populations below.
Move Observation time to 0, 20, 40 and 80. Record one prey and predator pair at each time on the back.

Learning objectives

1Compare starting populations without treating the model as a wildlife forecast.

Questions teachers ask

What assumptions does this model use?

Equations: dN/dt = 0.6N(1-N/K)-0.02NP; dP/dt = 0.004NP-0.3P. Time is in model units. Curves may damp toward equilibrium; repeated large cycles are not guaranteed.

How do I reset the investigation?

Use Reset experiment to restore the starting controls. Use the sliders with a pointer, touch or keyboard. The model runs without an account.

Embed this simulation

Drop it into your LMS, blog, or class site — free.

<iframe src="https://kiwibee.io/en/simulations/predator-prey-population-simulation/embed" title="Predator–Prey Population Lab | KiwiBee" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen style="width:100%;height:min(70vh,620px);min-height:420px;border:0;border-radius:16px"></iframe>

Keep planning

Predator and prey: read the population graph — worksheet and teacher notes (PDF, English)

Food Webs

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