Turing patterns
Turing patterns are complex, self-organizing structures that arise in nature due to the interaction of two chemical substances, often referred to as "morphogens." These patterns emerge through a process called reaction-diffusion, where one substance activates the production of another while also inhibiting its own production. This interplay leads to the formation of distinct patterns, such as stripes or spots, in various biological systems.
These patterns can be observed in many living organisms, including animal coats, fish skin, and even plant growth. The concept was first introduced by the mathematician Alan Turing in 1952, highlighting how simple rules can lead to intricate designs in nature.