An inhomogeneous controlled branching process

Abstract

A discrete time branching process where the offspring distribution is generation-dependent, and the number of reproductive individuals is controlled by a random mechanism is considered. This model is a Markov chain but, in general, the transition probabilities are non-stationary. Under not too restrictive hypotheses, this model presents the classical duality of branching processes: either becomes extinct almost surely or grows to infinity. Sufficient conditions for the almost sure extinction and for a positive probability of indefinite growth are provided. Finally rates of growth of the process provided the non-extinction are studied.