State analysis of ecological models: model reactions to parameter change

A seven-parameter predator-prey model was used to illustrate a method of assessing parameter sensitivity of complex systems in the whole region of solutions existence. The method is based on comparing the distance between the solution at a reference point in parameter space and solutions associated with altered parameter values. The distance metric (M) is used to compare output time series solutions of the system. Values of M form plateaus of relatively low sensitivity and transition zones of high sensitivity in parameter space. Unsteady points can also be identified using this procedure.