Coexistence in Three-Species Cyclic Competition: Lattice-Based Versus Lattice-Free Individual-Based Models.

Individual-based modelling is an increasingly popular framework for modelling biological systems. Many of these models represent space as a lattice, imposing unrealistic limitations on the movement of the modelled individuals. We adapt existing models of three competing species by using a lattice-free approach, thereby improving the realism of the spatial dynamics. We retrieve the same qualitative dynamics as the lattice-based approach. However, by facilitating a higher spatial heterogeneity and allowing for small spatial refuges to form and persist, the maintenance of coexistence is promoted. This corresponds well with experimental results.