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Published 2019 | Version v1.0.0
Pictorial Work Open

Simulating Fish Patterns

Description

2019 Honorable Mention, Northwestern Scientific Images Contest. Every symbol on this picture represents a different pigment cell in a fish skin pattern. We created this pattern using computer simulations of a mathematical model. Zebrafish have stripes on their skin, but some fish that evolved from zebrafish have spots like these. Whether fish have spots or stripes, their patterns form because brightly-colored cells move around and organize themselves into a pattern. Think of these cells like birds interacting to form a flock in the sky they follow rules of behavior to make beautiful patterns. With mathematical modeling and simulations, we search for the rules of behavior that pigment cells follow to create zebrafish stripes. When we change these rules in our model, different patterns form, like the spots in the picture. This shows one way mathematics is used to study the evolution of skin pattern diversity in nature.

Abstract

This image originally appeared as part of Northwestern Scientific Images Contest. The contest and subsequent exhibitions are organized by Science in Society, the University's research center for science education and public engagement. Further information and opportunities to participate are available on their website.

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Additional details

Created:
March 31, 2023
Modified:
March 31, 2023