Pattern formation by mussels

Spatial self-organization is the main theoretical explanation for the global occurrence of regular or otherwise coherent spatial patterns in ecosystems. Using mussel beds as a model ecosystem, we provide an experimental demonstration of spatial self-organization. Under homogeneous laboratory conditions, mussels developed regular patterns, similar to those in the field. An individual-based model derived from our experiments showed that interactions between individuals explained the observed patterns. Furthermore, a field study showed that pattern formation affected ecosystem-level processes in terms of improved growth and resistance to wave action. Our results imply that spatial self-organization is an important determinant of the structure and functioning of ecosystems, and it needs to be considered in their conservation.

From:
Van de Koppel, J., Gascoigne, J.C., Theraulaz, G., Rietkerk, M., Mooij W.M., & Herman, P.M.J. 2008 Experimental evidence for spatial self-organization and its emergent effects in mussel beds. Science 322:739-742.

URL: http://www.sciencemag.org/cgi/content/abstract/322/5902/739

Category:

Science & Technology

Tags:

• Collective motion
• self-organization
• mussels

[Jvdk1968]

Of course they were alive! I just took about 1750 mussels, seperated them, and spread them out over the surface that you see.

Johan

[neoneoneofu]

Wow! How much time did it actually take, for such patterns to form?

[Jvdk1968]

@neoneoneofu About one day, although you are seeing I think about 10 hours. After that, things get boring.

Johan

[neoneoneofu]

Wait a second! Were they alive? Or were they dead and you just supplied energy to the system by shaking the substrate or something?..

I'm sorry, if the question seems stupid to you, but it's really difficult for me to tell just by watching this vid :))