A non-linear mathematical model for a three species ecosystem: Hippos in Lake Edward

In this work we study a non-linear mathematical model based on three different interacting species. We apply our model to Lake Edward ecosystem consisting in hippos, tilapia fishes and human inhabitants. In this case, we estimate the values of the key parameters using actual data and show the reliability of the proposed model as a predictive tool. We also show, via numerical calculations and parameter values that the ecosystem associated to the lake is very far from reaching a stable equilibrium. Through our analysis we provide the conditions for a possible coexistence among the three species. •Population dynamics described by Malthus Verhulst like-model with variable carrying capacity.•Application of the model to a concrete case: Lake Edward ecosystem.•Analytical and numerical analysis of the model and results.