Aggregation Dynamics Using Phase Wave Signals and Branching Patterns

TL;DR

This paper investigates slime mold aggregation using coupled phase and concentration equations, revealing how phase waves guide aggregation and how branching patterns emerge, resembling river networks under uniform cell supply.

Contribution

It introduces a novel model combining phase wave signals and cell concentration to explain aggregation and branching in slime mold.

Findings

Phase waves act as tactic signals for aggregation.

Stationary branching patterns resemble river networks.

Uniform cell supply leads to stable branching structures.

Abstract

The aggregation dynamics of slime mold is studied using coupled equations of phase \phi and cell concentration n. Phase waves work as tactic signals for aggregation. Branching structures appear during the aggregation. A stationary branching pattern appears like a river network, if cells are uniformly supplied into the system.