NetLogo User Community Models

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## WHAT IS IT?

This model demonstrates the navigation techniques of a dung beetle. The beetle reorients itself at the observer's discretion and attempts to reach the other edge of the grid in order to complete its task.

## HOW IT WORKS

The beetle first must move a certain number of steps, choosing a random angle each time for its next step. After this number of steps, which is set by the observer, the beetle reorients for 5 ticks before resetting its orientation and moving the same number of steps at a random angle once again. The ball of dung simply 'follows' the beetle as it navigates.

## HOW TO USE IT

SETUP: Sets up one beetle, one ball of dung, and the background.

GO: Runs the simulation.

STEP-ANGLE: The set of values from which the beetle can choose its random angle of navigation.

NUMBER-STEPS: The number of steps before the beetle reorients itself.

SHOW-BALL: Reveals/hides the ball of dung.

SHOW-PEN: Traces/does not trace the path of the beetle.

## THINGS TO NOTICE

View the Distance vs. Time graph which demonstrates the beetle's distance from its starting point to its current point as time progresses. Notice how changing the step angle and number of steps in between orientations alters this graph. The beetle changes color from black to gray when reorienting to indicate that it is reorienting.

## THINGS TO TRY

Try changing the step angle or number of steps to simulate a rough surface of navigation for the beetle. See how this changes its navigation patterns.

## EXTENDING THE MODEL

Make the beetle's reorientation procedure more complex so that it considers other variables rather than simply setting its heading back to the original heading. This could include adding landmarks or other features that the beetle must observe and take into account for reorientation.