Talking forests: inspiration for resilient machine ecosystems
Mycelium – the underground fungal network that connects trees in a forest – is nature’s own DLT 1. When designing machine ecosystems, mimicking the principles of these natural networks give us a good head start in creating resilient autonomous assets. We’ve looked at aspects of natural ecosystems as an inspiration before, but this time we dive deep into the inner workings of interaction in ecosystems.
This post looks at two things; how and why these natural networks work. Looking at how they work are for example resources and information shared between individuals and species, and how does it react when circumstances change. We will also consider why it works: the system is characterized by communication, coöperation, altruism and long term self interest. But most importantly it is designed for adaptability; not for a predicted, optimized demand/supply scenario. Nature’s own DLT makes it possible for slow-growing, immobile trees to adapt to a constantly changing environment.
FOREST NETWORKS – HOW THEY WORK
A forest is bigger than the trees and plants you see growing around you. Underground lies a vast network of strain-like fungal cells. A fungal network called mycelium 3. According to fungal scientist Paul Stamets 4 every step in a forest influences about 300 miles of mycelium5.
RESOURCE TRADING BETWEEN TREES AND FUNGUS (1)
Trees transfer sugar6 to the fungus and receive water and nutrients such as phosphate and nitrogen in return 7. It is unclear to what extend this exchange is a trade with a set price and you only get as much as you pay for, or if the system is built on long term reciprocity and benefits for the ecosystem. It is more likely based on abundance, giving what you can to the system and receiving back what you need when you need it. This keeps the system healthy and balanced.
