Simulations Help Scientists Understand Predator, Prey Relationship
by Simon Lee | on August 26, 2012
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Simulations have helped scientists answer some lingering questions regarding the evolution of fish group formation.
Researchers reported in the journal Science that they have found evidence that collective motion in animal groups like schools of fish can evolve as a finely tuned defense against attack from predators.
Iain Couzin, an assistant professor of ecology and evolutionary biology at Princeton who studies collective animal behavior, said that this dynamic has been suggested by other research, but there are many variables that drive group movement, making it difficult to point to a direct link to self-defense.
The team developed an evolvable simulation of small prey that allowed them to observe how group formation and movement alone protect against predatory attack.
They projected the simulated prey onto one side of a tank containing a bluegill sunfish. The prey interacted spontaneously with one another based on encoded behavior traits.
The team found that the bluegills were most likely to avoid attacking simulated prey that had formed coordinated and mobile groups.
The findings suggest that group formation can dissuade a predator, even if the prey are completely unaware of the danger.
The simulated prey mirrors those of many animal groups, wherein individuals follow cues from their near-neighbors to coordinate movements.
“This sort of hybrid virtual approach has given us a way of tapping into these long-lasting questions that have really evaded standard analysis for decades,” Couzin said in a press release.
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About The Author: Simon Lee
Simon Lee is father of 5 Chirish kids lol:-) I say that because they are half Chinese and Irish. I am - team Empower Associates founder. I run LeesMedia Web Consulting – and as the name implies, it's a web business & Empower Associates – a badass team in empower network lol :-) For years I was searching for the answer to creating great wealth for myself and my family. I found that with Empower Associates that and so much more. While I spend part of my time running LeesMedia, my main goal is to help empower people to live life to the fullest. Having as many people as possible enjoy the full fruits of freedom and the possibilities it offers is my ultimate goal which I hope to fulfill through becoming an associate of the Empower Network. Since 2010, LeesMedia has been in full operation in the beautiful Central Coast of NSW Australia. I firmly believe that the extra support and commitment provided by the service of my team is why those of us who have become Empower members are enjoying a fuller, happier life. Let me help you reach your full potential by becoming an Empower Associate, I can help you free yourself from what is holding you back, letting you create a new stream of income and enjoy your life to the fullest. Those that are ready for a change in their lives are always welcome to my team Empower Associates p.s - If you like the Blog Posts... I'd love to here your comments on them! Click the "Tweet" & "G+1" and let's help me Share the story with the world! Empowering You.
