Abstract
Ecosystems can exhibit rich equilibrium behaviors, including alternative
stable states (ASS), for which ecosystems dramatically differ in
structure and functions. Therefore, it is critical to understand system
equilibrium behavior. Positive feedback has been recognized as a
critical process to induce ASS. However, it is largely unclear whether
and to which extent increasing number of positive feedbacks will be
easier to produce ASS. Using a generalized Lotka-Volterra model and two
functional forms of positive feedback, this study found that positive
feedback was largely necessary to produce ASS, and more positive
feedbacks generally more likely produced ASS. However, above results
depended on the functional form of positive feedback and interaction
types. This work can help predict ecosystem dynamics under global change
and intensified anthropogenic activities, both which may activate
previously “dormant” positive feedbacks and make this issue more
visible and important.