Better Ecology behaviors are based on academic research in animal ethology. This section documents the scientific foundation for each behavior implementation.
Research Categories
Movement and Social Behaviors
| Topic | Description |
|---|---|
| Herd Movement | Collective decision-making, leadership, quorum sensing |
| Flocking | Boids algorithm, topological interactions, V-formation |
| Parent-Offspring | Attachment, bonding, imprinting, weaning |
Survival Behaviors
| Topic | Description |
|---|---|
| Fleeing | Flight initiation distance, escape strategies, panic |
| Foraging | Marginal value theorem, patch selection, grazing |
Predator-Prey Behaviors
| Topic | Description |
|---|---|
| Hunting | Predator strategies, prey selection, pack coordination |
| Defensive Behaviors | Armoring, chemical defenses, threat assessment |
Population Dynamics
| Topic | Description |
|---|---|
| Spawning | Biome distribution, group sizes, territory spacing, carrying capacity |
Life Cycle Behaviors
| Topic | Description |
|---|---|
| Breeding | Courtship, mate selection, territoriality |
| Sleep | Activity cycles, rest patterns, vigilance |
Key Academic References
The following foundational works inform the behavior implementations:
| Author | Year | Contribution |
|---|---|---|
| Reynolds | 1987 | Boids algorithm for flocking |
| Charnov | 1976 | Marginal Value Theorem for foraging |
| Ydenberg and Dill | 1986 | Economic escape theory |
| Ballerini et al. | 2008 | Topological interactions in bird flocks |
| Couzin et al. | 2002 | Self-organized collective behavior |
Implementation Approach
Research findings are translated into Minecraft implementations through:
- Parameter extraction: Identifying key behavioral thresholds
- Algorithm design: Creating simplified models of complex behaviors
- Balance tuning: Adjusting for gameplay while maintaining scientific accuracy
- Configuration exposure: Making parameters adjustable via data files
Each research document includes implementation notes specific to Minecraft entities.
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