SwarmSync

Simulating Flow of Micro-organisms

Sophia Liao
MDes Ecologies 2026
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1 Insects Swarming Behaviour along the Echotone of Epping Forest

This project explores the relationship between microbial systems and ecological environments, aiming to visualize and simulate the growth, networks, and flows of living organisms through both microscopic and macroscopic lenses in an abstract manner. The project specifically investigates three distinct types of microorganisms and their microscopic ecological environments, which inspired three different system behaviors.

By analyzing these microorganisms, we gain insights into their interactions, growth patterns, and ecological roles, which serve as a foundation for understanding more extensive environmental dynamics. Subsequently, these findings are implemented on a regional scale, allowing for a comprehensive simulation that encapsulates the complex interplay between these microorganisms and their broader ecological contexts.

1. Mycelium and mycorrhizal networks with tree roots (wood wide web)

2. Harmful Algal Blooms creates deadzones for other marine lives

3. Insect Swarm coordiation and foraging pattern defined by vegetation

Project video
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2 Mycelium Crawling on Tree Roots
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3 Micro-ecologies