Computationally Modeling the Utility of Leaf-Closing in the Mimosa pudica Plant

Abstract

When touched or otherwise stimulated, the Mimosa pudica plant exhibits a rapid leaf-closing movement, thought to be a defensive mechanism against predators. However, this process is also highly energy-intensive for the plant. We propose a computational model to examine the trade-off between the energy cost of leaf closing and its potential benefits in reducing predation risk. The model estimates the energy required per leaf closing event by using the Finite Element Method, and the total energy available to the plant, based on the plants photosynthetic capabilities. Our preliminary results suggest that even with its high energy cost, the leaf-closing mechanism could provide an evolutionary advantage if it leads to a sufficient reduction in predation. However, our findings are based on several approximations and assumptions, highlighting the need for further experimental work to confirm these predictions. This work demonstrates the utility of computational modeling in studying the evolutionary pressures shaping plant behavior.