The evolution of patterning during movement in a large-scale citizen science game

The motion dazzle hypothesis posits that high contrast geometric patterns can cause difficulties in tracking a moving target and has been argued to explain the patterning of animals such as zebras. Research date only tested small number patterns, offering equivocal support for hypothesis. Here, we take genetic programming approach allow evolve based on their fitness (time taken capture) thus find optimal strategy providing protection when moving. Our ‘Dazzle Bug’ citizen science game over 1.5 million targets touch screen at popular visitor attraction. Surprisingly, found lost pattern elements during evolution became closely background matching. Modelling results suggested with lower energy were harder catch. indicate low contrast, featureless offer greatest against capture motion, challenging