The Physics of Animal Behavior: Form, Function, and Interactions

Abstract

Understanding the physics of behavior in animals is a challenging and fascinating area of research that has gained increasing attention in recent years. In this review, we delve into the intricate temporal and spatial scales of animal behavior for both individuals and collectives. We explore the experimental and theoretical approaches used to study behavior, highlighting the importance of feedback loops, emergent behavior, and environmental factors in shaping the actions of creatures great and small. The emergence of novel technologies, such as high-speed imaging and tracking, has provided unparalleled insight into the captivating nuances of animal behavior, and we review how these insights have been used to validate physics-based models of animal behavior. We also consider the potential applications of this research in robotics and artificial intelligence, identify new areas for exploration, and envision the possibility of further breakthroughs that will illuminate the complex dynamics of animal behavior.