Fruit Flies' Neural Networks Solve Distributed Computing Problem Better Than Humans

Friday, January 14, 2011 - 18:00 in Mathematics & Economics

The burgeoning neural networks of fruit fly pupae solve a distributed computing problem, arranging sensory bristles in a very efficient, effective manner. Scientists who monitored the bristles‘ growth say they can mimic the flies' method to build more effective communications networks. It's not the first time we've seen an insect solve a problem that plagues computer scientists - bees can do it, too - but the fruit fly discovery does one better, leading to an algorithm that can be used to develop more efficient computer and wireless networks. Related ArticlesDistributed Humans Smarter Than Distributed Computers In Solving Complex Biology ProblemMap of Fruit Fly's Neuron Clusters Offers Glimpse Into Our Own Minds' LayoutTED Talk: Laser Control of Headless Fruit Flies Uncovers Secrets of the MindTagsScience, Rebecca Boyle, computers, computing science, distributed computing, drosophila, fruit flies, neural networks, wireless networksDistributed computing involves several processors working in concert to solve a problem. Some are...

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