Invariant algebraic curves of large degree for quadratic system

In this paper we present for the first time examples of algebraic limit cycles and saddle loops of degree greater than 4 for planar quadratic systems. In particular, we give examples of algebraic limit cycles of degree 5 and 6, and algebraic saddle loops of degree 3 and 5 surrounding a strong focus. We also give an example of an invariant algebraic curve of degree 12 for which the quadratic system has no Darboux integrating factors or first integrals.  2004 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.