Critical patch size reduction by heterogeneous diffusion

摘要: Population survival depends on a large set of factors and how they are distributed in space. Due to landscape heterogeneity, species can occupy particular regions that provide the ideal scenario for development, working as refuge from harmful environmental conditions. Survival occurs if population growth overcomes losses caused by adventurous individuals cross patch edge. In this work, we consider single dynamics with space-dependent diffusion coefficient. We show analytically, within Stratonovich framework, heterogeneous reduces minimal size when contrasted homogeneous case same average diffusivity. Furthermore, result is robust regardless choice coefficient profile. also discuss picture changes beyond framework. Particularly, Ito case, which nonanticipative, promote opposite effect, while Hanggi-Klimontovich interpretation reinforces reduction effect.