ISSN:
0392-6737
Keywords:
General, theoretical and mathematical biophysics (including logic of biosystems, quantum biology, and relevant aspects of thermodynamics, information theory, cybernetics, and bionics)
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Physics
Notes:
Summary The potential usefulness of applications of two physical concepts to evolutionary biology was evaluated on ant societies. The optimization principle, which predicts a more efficient use of energy by more sophisticated societies, was contrasted to that of irreversible thermodynamics, predicting an increase in orderliness and thus an increase in energy consumption per unit of biomass. Our results on oxygen consumption measurements of ant colonies showed a complex and non-linear relationship between colony size and energy consumption per unit mass, that can be explained by irreversible thermodynamics and catastrophe theory, whereas an additional exponential inverse relationship may be explained by optimization principles. Thus, social complexity is related to energy consumption in a discontinuous manner, and seems to be bound by both negentropy content of a society and social-optimization mechanisms.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/BF02451653
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