Worth noting that the search algorithm, simulated annealing, is a metaheuristic algorithm - meaning, it's modelled after an existing natural phenomenon (in this case, metallurgical annealing). Other metaheuristic algorithms familiar to HN readers include genetic algorithms and ant colony optimization algorithms. Given the nature of these algorithms it isn't shocking to see them in the wild, but it is interesting.<p>It might even be more accurate to say the model of metallurgical annealing used in simulated annealing has parallels with a model of jellyfish search behaviour, rather than jellyfish "using" simulated annealing to find food.