Mathematical Patterns in Animal Markings

Explore the fascinating world of mathematical patterns in animal markings through this illuminating lecture by Prof. Ian Stewart FRS, Emeritus Professor of Mathematics at the University of Warwick. Delve into the origins of stripes on tigers, spots on leopards, and irregular patches on cows, and discover how Alan Turing's groundbreaking work in the 1950s laid the foundation for understanding these natural phenomena. Learn about the 'Turing equations' and their remarkable ability to generate patterns similar to those found on various animals, including complex fish stripes and intricate seashell designs. Gain insights into recent biological research that has begun to identify the specific molecules and genes involved in creating these patterns. This highly illustrated and informal talk, presented as part of the Cambridge Festival 2014, offers a captivating blend of mathematics and biology, revealing the hidden mathematical beauty behind nature's diverse animal markings.

Date: 22 March 2014 - 15:00 to