Knowledge innovation is the driving force and guarantee of regional development. Inspired by population ecology, this article uses symbiosis theory to explore the symbiotic relationship of subjects in the regional knowledge innovation ecosystem. The nonlinear Lotka–Volterra model is constructed with the main subjects to measure the knowledge innovation ability of knowledge innovation subjects. The symbiotic relationships among the knowledge innovation subjects in each region are identified. Taking Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou as examples, a sensitivity analysis of the initial value and coopetition relationship is conducted. The results show that the initial value change has no significant effect on the development of knowledge innovation subjects. The interaction relationships among subjects directly affect the symbiotic evolution trend. The study extends the application scope of the symbiosis theory and develops a theoretical framework for the development of subjects in regional knowledge innovation ecosystem. It offers regions a reference to use Lotka–Volterra model adjusting the knowledge innovation structure in various regions.
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