Delayed logistic and Rosenzweig-MacArthur models with allometric parameter setting estimate population cycles at lower trophic levels well

► Current body-size regressions have been derived for the oscillation period of the population densities of warm-blooded species, like herbivores. Oscillations expected from a one-species (delayed logistic) and a two-species (Rosenzweig-MacArthur) model were compared to cycles observed in laboratory and field. ► We extend the analysis to other clades, allowing for a wide comparison between the obtained linear regressions, and found allometric scaling in all herbivorous groups and in none of the carnivorous groups. Oscillation periods are thus size-independent for predatory invertebrates, fish, birds and mammals. ► Metabolic scaling clearly facilitates understanding of limit cycles amongst different species and clades. Implications have been addressed in the light of intraspecific and interspecific delays.