Theory 51/Predator-prey/Termination phase
Damping Comes From Refuges
The claim
Oscillations damp when the ratio of refuge availability to predation pressure is high enough to cap the prey's low-density escape.
01Mechanism
Refuges prevent the prey from reaching the low point that drives the cycle; the ratio determines damping.
02Prediction
Damping should track the ratio.
03Refutation
Damping tracking habitat area would remove refuge quality.