The Algorithmic Beauty of Sea Shells
Hans Meinhardt, Przemyslaw Prusinkiewicz (Illustrator), Deborah R. Fowler (Illustrator), Przemyslaw Prusinkiewicz (Contribution by), Deborah R. FowlerBooks.org participates in affiliate programs including Bookshop.org and the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. We may earn a commission from qualifying purchases made through links on this page, at no additional cost to you.
Overview
The patterns on the shells of tropical sea snails are not only compellingly beautiful but also tell a tale of biological development. The decorative patterns are records of their own genesis, which follows laws like those of dune formation. Hans Meinhardt has analyzed the dynamical processes that form these patterns and retraced them faithfully in computer simulations. An accompanying diskette with the corresponding algorithms offers wide scope to those with a PC to try their hand at simulating and varying the patterns. The enlarged edition includes a new chapter showing that the models proposed for shell patterning can also account for other important processes in development. The formation of organizing regions and embryonic axes and the initiation of leaves serve as examples.Mathematical models and advanced computer-generated images are used to explain and illustrate structural growth patterns of seashells in nature. This fascinating and beautifully illustrated book conveys the intuitive appeal and the "touch of magic" that accompany the current research. A diskette, packaged with the book, contains the algorithms and simulations necessary to replicate the results. 150 illustrations.
Synopsis
The patterns on the shells of tropical sea snails are not only compellingly beautiful but also tell a tale of biological development. The decorative patterns are records of their own genesis, which follows laws like those of dune formation or the spread of a flu epidemic. Hans Meinhardt has analyzed the dynamical processes that form these patterns and retraced them faithfully in computer simulations. His book is exciting not only for the astonishing scientific knowledge it reveals but also for its fascinating pictures. An accompanying CD-ROM with the corresponding algorithms offers wide scope to those who wish to try their hand at simulating and varying the patterns.