A new optimization meta-heuristic algorithm based on self-defense mechanism of the plants with three reproduction operators

In this paper, a new meta-heuristic algorithm is presented, which is a new bio-inspired optimization algorithm based on the self-defense mechanisms of the plants. In the literature, there are many published works, where the authors scientifically demonstrate that plants have self-defense mechanisms (coping strategies) and these techniques are used to defend themselves from predators, in this case herbivorous insects. The proposed algorithm considers as its basis the predator prey model proposed by Lotka and Volterra, which means that when the plant detects the presence of an invading organism, it triggers a series of chemical reactions, which products are emitted into the air to attract the natural predator of the invading organism. The performance of the proposed approach is verified with the optimization of a set of traditional benchmark mathematical functions and the CEC-2015 functions, and the results are compared statistically against other optimization meta-heuristics.