Ethological dynamics in diorama environments

Algorithm for intelligent behavior of fungal mycelial network in diorama environment

Principal
investigator

Yu FukasawaGraduate school of agricultural science

Hyphal network of filamentous fungi, called mycelium, plays essential roles in forest ecosystems in terms of decomposition of organic matters, carbon and nutrient translocation, and symbiosis with forest trees. Recently, we found that fungal mycelia can make memory and decision against environmental stimuli. However, the mechanism of such intelligent behaviour is totally unknown. The goal of this project is to reveal the mechanisms of intelligent behaviour of fungal mycelial network. Using microcosm experiment and bioimaging, we will visualize mycelial responses and information transfer for various stimuli quantitatively. This approach will give an answer for the question: whether a fungal mycelium behave against environmental stimuli by integrating/transporting information across whole mycelium or by accumulation of numerous local responses without information transfer. In addition, epigenetic mechanisms for mycelial memory will also be tested. Using variables about information transfer obtained from microcosm experiment, we will develop an agent-based simulation model for fungal mycelial behaviour.