3-D Adaptive Landscape - Simulation

In this simulation, 3 adaptive peaks are present (initially located in the same place). Each peak can be adjusted with respect to its location on each axis (meanX and meanY), it width on each axis (varianceX and variance Y), as well as its height. The population size, location, and variance can also be adjusted. The fitness values for the array of trait values is represented by contour lines.

The population size can range from 10 to 100. If a large amount of genetic drift is desired, the population size should be set to 10. If a small amount of drift is desired, the population size should be set to 100. Note that the simulation will run slower if a large population is used.

If mutation is allowed, the population will be able to explore areas that selection alone cannot.

Pressing the run button allows the population to begin moving around on the adaptive landscape. While the population is adapting to the landscape, the peaks can be adjusted so that a changing environment can be simulated.

Each of the yellow dots represents an individual. Note that no individual actually moves on the adaptive landscape (changes in its trait value). Instead, the population as a whole moves as it adapts to the landscape. When an individual dies, it is erased and replaced by an individual that may have a different trait value. The trait value of a newly born individual is a function of its parents' trait values. The parents are chosen randomly.