Emergent Collective Reproduction via Evolving Neuronal Flocks

Authors

Nam H. Le, University of VermontFollow
Michael Levin, Tufts UniversityFollow
Richard A. Watson, University of SouthamptonFollow
Josh Bongard, University of VermontFollow
Christopher L. Buckley, University of SussexFollow

Author ORCID Identifier

0000-0002-6862-9257

Abstract

This study advances the understanding of evolutionary transitions in individuality (ETIs) through a novel artificial life framework, VitaNova, which integrates self-organization and natural selection to simulate the emergence of complex, reproductive groups. By dynamically modeling individual agents within an environment shaped by predators and spatial constraints, VitaNova reveals mechanisms by which simple agents evolve into cohesive units exhibiting collective reproduction. The findings highlight the synergy between self-organized behaviors and adaptive evolutionary strategies as fundamental drivers of ETIs. This approach deepens our understanding of higher-order biological individuality and offers a new empirical pathway for investigating ETIs, extending current theoretical frameworks.

Recommended Citation

Le, Nam H.; Levin, Michael; Watson, Richard A.; Bongard, Josh; and Buckley, Christopher L. (2025) "Emergent Collective Reproduction via Evolving Neuronal Flocks," Northeast Journal of Complex Systems (NEJCS): Vol. 7 : No. 2 , Article 8.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.63562/2577-8439.1109
Available at: https://orb.binghamton.edu/nejcs/vol7/iss2/8