Sex Ratio Dynamics of Lamprey Populations: Implications for Ecosystem Stability and Conservation

School of Big Data, Qingdao Huanghai University, Qingdao, 266420, China

^* Corresponding author’s e-mail: 787050024@qq.com

Abstract

This study investigates the ecological implications of lamprey population dynamics, focusing specifically on the influence of sex ratios within ecosystems. Using an ecosystem modeling approach, we simulated lamprey population community succession and analyzed their impact on various ecological factors. Our model integrates population growth dynamics and sex ratio variations, identifying key indicators from literature that reflect lamprey population behaviors, including predation efficiency and susceptibility to predators. Through an integrated evaluation model, we assessed the ecological roles of lamprey populations, emphasizing their contributions to predation control and food chain stability. Factors such as predation pressure, adaptability in food chains, and vulnerabilities to environmental stressors like overfishing were considered in evaluating population strengths and vulnerabilities. Our findings indicate that a balanced sex ratio approaching 0.5 correlates positively with ecosystem stability. This underscores the importance of maintaining diverse and sustainable lamprey populations for ecosystem health. The study highlights the complex interactions between population dynamics and ecological stability, providing insights crucial for informed conservation strategies and sustainable ecosystem management.