Genetic Algorithms in Elixir

Using Genetic Algorithms to Simulate Evolution

One of the more interesting applications of genetic algorithms that you have yet to discover is their ability to model real evolutionary processes. Genetic algorithms are inspired by evolution, and while the internal processes that guide genetic algorithms such as selection, crossover, and mutation are only loosely based on science, they can still be used to offer valuable insights into the evolutionary process.

Say you’ve been tasked by a biologist to write a simulation of how tigers evolve under different environmental conditions. Obviously, the traits required to survive in a desert versus an arctic tundra differ drastically. Your goal is to write a simulation that models the basic evolution ...