Delay-induced chimeras in neural networks with fractal topology

Abstract: We study chimera states, which are partial synchronization patterns consisting of spatially coexisting domains of coherent (synchronized) and incoherent (desynchronized) dynamics, in ring networks of FitzHugh-Nagumo oscillators with fractal connectivities. In particular, we focus on the interplay of time delay in the coupling term and the network topology. In the parameter plane of coupling strength and delay time we find tongue-like regions of existence of chimera states alternating with regions of coherent dynamics. We show analytically and numerically that the period of the synchronized dynamics as a function of delay is characterized by a sequence of piecewise linear branches. In between these branches various chimera states and other partial synchronization patterns are induced by the time delay. By varying the time delay one can deliberately choose and stabilize desired spatio-temporal patterns.