How it Works
This simulation models fungal mycelium as a collection of growing hyphal tips on a 2D substrate. Each tip has a direction angle and extends at a fixed speed, drawing a segment. At each step, tips may branch (probabilistically) or be deflected toward nearby nutrient patches.
Anastomosis (hyphal fusion) is simulated: when two tips come within a threshold distance, they fuse, incrementing the anastomosis counter and preventing further growth from both — mimicking the real biological process that creates loops in the network and enables resource redistribution.
where ∇C = gradient toward nearest nutrient source
α = nutrient attraction strength, η = noise amplitude, ξ ∈ [-1,1]
Branch prob: P_branch = b · dt (per tip per frame)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is mycelium?
Mycelium is the vegetative part of a fungus, consisting of a network of fine white filaments called hyphae. It grows through soil, wood, or other substrates, absorbing nutrients.
How do hyphae grow?
Hyphae grow by extending their tips (apices) outward. Cell wall material is added at the tip, driven by vesicle fusion and turgor pressure, allowing the hypha to penetrate and explore new substrate.
What is anastomosis in fungi?
Anastomosis is the fusion of two hyphae to form a connected network. This allows resource sharing and communication across the mycelium, making the network more resilient and efficient.
How does nutrient gradient guide mycelium growth?
Hyphae exhibit chemotropism: they sense chemical gradients (e.g., sugars, nitrogen compounds) and bias their growth direction toward higher nutrient concentrations, optimizing resource acquisition.
What is the fractal dimension of mycelium?
Mycelial networks often have fractal dimensions between 1.5 and 1.9, meaning they efficiently fill space while remaining less than fully 2D. This geometry maximizes surface area for nutrient absorption.
How fast does mycelium grow?
Growth rates vary enormously by species and conditions. Some species extend tips at 1–10 micrometers per minute. Under optimal conditions, a colony can expand several centimeters per day.
Can mycelium conduct electrical signals?
Yes, research has shown that hyphae can transmit electrical action potentials along the network, analogous to nerve impulses. These signals may coordinate growth responses across the colony.
What is the role of mycelium in ecosystems?
Mycelium decomposes organic matter, cycles nutrients, forms mycorrhizal associations with plant roots, and creates the 'Wood Wide Web' that connects and supports forest ecosystems.
What mathematical models describe mycelium growth?
Reaction-diffusion models, branching random walks, and lattice-based tip-growth models are used. The Edelstein model tracks hyphal tip density and substrate as coupled PDEs.
How does temperature affect mycelium growth?
Mycelium growth typically follows a bell-shaped temperature response. Each species has an optimal range (often 20–30°C); growth slows below and above this range, ceasing at extremes.