Phytochrome Signaling
Phytochrome-like sensing in business means detecting whether you're launching into open market space (full sun) or into an already-occupied niche (shade).
Phytochromes are light-sensing proteins that distinguish sunlight from shade. Sunlight is red-rich; shade (filtered through leaves) is far-red-rich. Many small seeds (lettuce, tobacco, petunias) are light-dependent germinators. The seed measures the red:far-red ratio to determine: Am I in full sun or under a competitor's canopy? If it detects shade, it stays dormant - waiting for a light gap where a tree has fallen, fire has cleared the canopy, or a farmer has tilled the field.
Business Application of Phytochrome Signaling
Phytochrome-like sensing in business means detecting whether you're launching into open market space (full sun) or into an already-occupied niche (shade). Color Labs detected 'shade' - Instagram had already claimed the photo-sharing light. Startups need to sense competitive landscape before committing.