Degeneracy and long-range correlation: A simulation study

Didier Delignières^*, Vivien Marmelat^*,† and Kjerstin Torre^*

^(*) EA 2991 Movement to Health, EuroMov, University Montpellier1, France
^(†) Research Institute MOVE, Free University Amsterdam, The Netherlands
E-mail: didier.delignieres@univ-montp1.fr

Abstract

We present in this paper a simulation study that aimed at evidencing a causal relationship between degeneracy and long-range correlations. Long-range correlations represent a very specific form of fluctuations that have been evidenced in the outcomes time series produced by a number of natural systems. Long-range correlations are supposed to sign the complexity, adaptability and flexibility of the system. Degeneracy is defined as the ability of elements that are structurally different to perform the same function, and is presented as a key feature for explaining the robustness of complex systems. We propose a model able to generate long-range correlated series, and including a parameter that account for degeneracy. Results show that a decrease in degeneracy tends to reduce the strength of long-range correlation in the series produced by the model.