Simple models of coevolutionary genetic algorithms

The use of evolutionary computing techniques in coevolutionary/multiagent systems is becoming increasingly popular. This paper presents some simple models of the genetic algorithm in such systems, with the aim of examining the effects of different types of interdependence between individuals. Using the models, it is shown that for a fixed amount of interdependence between homogeneous coevolving individuals, the existence of partner gene variance, gene symmetry, and the level at which fitness is applied can have significant effects. Similarly, for heterogeneous coevolving systems with fixed interdependence, partner gene variance and fitness application are also found to have a significant effect, as is the partnering strategy used.