Spatial organization

Spatial organization can be observed when components of an abiotic or biological group are arranged non-randomly in space. Abiotic patterns, such as the ripple formations in sand dunes or the oscillating wave patterns of the Belousov–Zhabotinsky reaction[1] emerge after thousands of particles interact millions of times. On the other hand, individuals in biological groups may be arranged non-randomly due to selfish behavior, dominance interactions, or cooperative behavior. W. D. Hamilton (1971) proposed that in a non-related "herd" of animals, the spatial organization is likely a result of the selfish interests of individuals trying to acquire food or avoid predation.[2] On the other hand, spatial arrangements have also been observed among highly related members of eusocial groups, suggesting that the arrangement of individuals may provide advantages for the group.[3]

Spatial organization can be defined as how something is organized internally as well as externally concerning its surroundings. It can be viewed both on a large or small scale and may also include in its discussion, the factors and conditions that lead to a specific organization pattern.[4] In the frame of biology this may include the abiotic and biotic factors that a population is immersed in. In the frame of civilization, spatial organization may include if an area is rural, suburban, or urban. Spatial organization can even include how one manages and organizes their lawn to meet social norms. [5]

  1. ^ Ball, P. The Self-Made Tapestry: Pattern formation in nature. Oxford: Oxford University Press. ISBN 0-19-850244-3.
  2. ^ Hamilton, W.D. (1971). "Geometry for the selfish herd". Journal of Theoretical Biology. 31 (2): 295–311. doi:10.1016/0022-5193(71)90189-5. PMID 5104951.
  3. ^ Wilson, E. O. (1976). "Behavioral discretization and the number of castes in an ant species". Behavioral Ecology and Sociobiology. 1 (2): 141–154. doi:10.1007/BF00299195.
  4. ^ Robbins, P. and J. Sharp. 2003. The Lawn-Chemical Economy and Its Discontents. Antipode, 35(5): 955-979.
  5. ^ "Lawn Order". 99 Percent Invisible. August 18, 2015.