Coexistence in a metapopulation model with explicit local dynamics.

Many patch-based metapopulation models assume that the local population within each patch is at its equilibrium and independent of changes in patch occupancy. We studied a metapopulation model that explicitly incorporates the local population dynamics of two competing species. The singular perturbation method is used to separate the fast dynamics of the local competition and the slow process of patch colonization and extinction. Our results show that the coupled system leads to more complex outcomes than simple patch models which do not include explicit local dynamics. We also discuss implications of the model for ecological systems in fragmented landscapes.