Fireflies: A Paradigm in Synchronization

Synchronous flashing in Fireflies is perhaps the first observed natural phenomenon displaying synchronization of a large ensemble. During a long time, this collective behavior was not recognized and validated as synchronous, but nowadays it constitutes a paradigmatic example of synchronization. In this chapter, we explain biological aspects related to fireflies flashing and their functionality. The response to synchronization observed in some firefly species is illustrated utilizing a model based on electronic fireflies, and we explore the consequences of the firefly courtship as a whole process including the males’ synchronization and the corresponding females’ response. Some other aspects are pointed out, such as fireflies inspired models for communication networks, and the use of firefly synchronization concept in mobile networks and other devices. Finally, we explore the actual applications inspired in fireflies synchronicity and also the perspectives both in biomedical issues and in technological systems including robotics. This chapter attempts to reveal the most important aspects related to firefly synchronization providing an extensive bibliography which allows the reader to deepen in all the exciting and fascinating issues linked to the firefly behavior.

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