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The simulated emergence of distributed environmental control in evolving microcosms
1Department of Computer Science, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), 7020 Trondheim, Norway. keithd@idi.ntnu.no
Artificial Life
|August 13, 2002
Summary
This study explores emergent environmental control using artificial life models. It found that microbial populations can regulate environmental factors, supporting the possibility of self-regulating ecosystems.
Area of Science:
- Artificial life
- Systems biology
- Astrobiology
Background:
- Investigates Gaia theory from an artificial life perspective, building on the GUILD system.
- Introduces the METAMIC model with constrained abstract chemistries grounded in thermodynamics.
- Aims to assess emergent distributed environmental control's compatibility with natural selection.
Discussion:
- Explores emergent homeostasis through 100 different abstract chemistries in the METAMIC model.
- Identifies 20 chemistries supporting microbial populations regulating environmental factors.
- Illustrates mechanisms for biota to control physical environments via underlying chemistry.
Key Insights:
- Demonstrates emergent environmental regulation by microbial populations in silico.
- Confirms that complex chemical systems can support self-regulation.
- Highlights the potential for distributed control in artificial ecosystems.
Outlook:
- Suggests possibilities for emergent environmental control at the microcosmic level.
- Provides a framework for further research into artificial ecosystems and Gaia theory.
- Lays groundwork for understanding life's potential role in planetary regulation.