GCSP research stipend | Fall 2024

Using Graph Coloring to Optimize Species Reintroduction

This project aims to use a graph coloring algorithm to identify optimal sites for reintroducing endangered species bred in captivity. Past reintroduction efforts have faced mixed results due to environmental factors such as predators and food availability. By translating environmental conditions and species locations into a graph, the graph can be assigned a certain amount of colors such that no adjacent vertices share the same color. The coloring algorithm will then color the graph such that species will not be adjacent to unfit environmental conditions. This approach will help improve the chances of successful species reintroduction and long-term survival.