Competition modes determine ecosystem stability in rock–paper–scissors games

Identification of the mechanisms which permit ecological communities to maintain high levels of biodiversity is of both theoretical interest and practical importance. Intransitive competition, in which there is no single superior competitor, is known to play an important role in this problem. In this study, we undertake a systematic comparative analysis of how different competition modes and ranges affect community stability in paper-rock-scissors games. We confirm that short-ranged interactions, in combination with cyclic competition, permits relatively stable coexistence. However, in contrast to previous studies, we show that long-range interactions can also produce stable communities. This stability emerges when competition interactions create asymmetries in the opportunities for population growth depending on the abundance of the species. Our findings demonstrate that small differences in the way species compete can qualitatively change dynamic behaviors of the system, and therefore emphasize the importance of correctly identifying these competition modes when designing conservation actions.