Complex dynamics of ecological systems under nonlinear harvesting: Hopf bifurcation and Turing instability

In this paper, we study the complex dynamics of a spatial nonlinear predator-prey system under harvesting. A modified Leslie-Gower model with Holling type IV functional response and nonlinear harvesting of prey is considered. We perform a detailed stability and Hopf bifurcation analysis of the spatial model system and determine the direction of Hopf bifurcation and stability of the bifurcating periodic solutions. Numerical simulations were performed to figure out how Turing patterns evolve under nonlinear harvesting. Simulation study leads to a few interesting sequences of pattern formation, which may be relevant in real world situations.