Simple predator-prey swarming model

This paper describes an individual-based model for simulating the swarming behavior of prey in the presence of predators. Predators and prey are represented as agents that interact through radial force laws. The prey form swarms through attractive and repulsive forces. The predators interact with the prey through an anti-Newtonian force, which is a nonconservative force that acts in the same direction for both agents. Several options for forces between predators are explored. The resulting equations are solved numerically and the dynamics are described in the context of the swarm’s ability to realistically avoid the predators. The goal is to reproduce swarm behavior that has been observed in nature with the simplest possible model.

Ref: V. Zhdankin and J. C. Sprott, Physical Review E 82, 056209-1 - 056209-7 (2010)