Microorganisms form complex communities with emergent behaviors. This simulation models microbial interactions and population dynamics.
About This Simulation
Create a plasmid maintenance simulation with replication, segregation, and selection.
Key Concepts
- Quorum Sensing: Cell-to-cell communication allowing bacteria to coordinate behavior based on population density.
- Biofilm Formation: Surface-attached microbial communities with enhanced resistance to antibiotics and environmental stress.
- Competition & Cooperation: Microbes compete for resources while also engaging in metabolic cooperation and cross-feeding.
- Horizontal Gene Transfer: Exchange of genetic material between organisms, spreading traits like antibiotic resistance.
Why It Matters
Microbial ecology informs antibiotic development, fermentation, bioremediation, and microbiome health.
How to Explore
- Adjust the sliders to modify simulation parameters and observe how the system responds
- Look for emergent patterns that arise from agent interactions
- Try extreme parameter values to find phase transitions and tipping points
- Compare the simulation behavior to real-world phenomena
Category: Microbiology — Exploring microbial systems and cellular processes