Coral growth
We investigate morphogenesis of the stony coral Stylophora pistillata (within the EU-Project "Coralzoo"). Based on new molecular data, the goal is to discover the branching rules with the help of mathematical models (cooperation with Prof. B. Rinkevich, Israel Oceanographic and Limnological Research Institute, Haifa, Israel). The mathematical model is not only thought as in-silico tool to simulate coral growth but shall al so allow testing of different growth scenarios. In particular, the model shall permit the predict ion of regeneration experiments. The model is a cellular automaton that can simulate macroscopic pattern formation based on local interactions of coral polyps. "Polyp moduls" in the model are specified by age and their genetic status. A central question is: Is communication through the gastrovascular network necessary or is purely local cell-cell communication sufficient to explain coral morphogenesis?