Complex Systems and Pattern Formation

Fairy circles represent one of the classic examples of complex spatial pattern formation and self organization. They are evenly-spaced barren patches of ground (3-10 m in diameter) in arid grasslands that persist for 30-60 years, and extend for hundreds of kilometers. Along with Nichole Barger, I explore how the fairy circles of the Namib desert are created and maintained, exploring hypotheses such as complex competitive dynamics for below ground resources, termites as ecosystem engineers, and the role of herbivory in maintaining fairy circles. I combine field manipulations and observations with spatial modeling to explore stability of fairy circles at both the local and landscape levels.

Follow our blog about fairy circles in the NamibRand Reserve!

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