Simulating Evolution's First Steps

We demonstrate a simple artificial chemistry environment in which two small evolutionary transitions from the simplest self-replicators to larger ones are observed. The replicators adapt to increasingly harsh environments, where they must synthesise the components they need for replication. The evolution of a biosynthetic pathway of increasing length is thus achieved, through the use of simple chemical rules for catalytic action.

• Type: Conference
• Year: 2003
• Where: ECAL
• Authors: Tim J. Hutton
• Keywords: ECAL 2003, Simple Artificial Chemistry, Simple Chemical Rules, Small Evolutionary Transitions