Mutation-preserving generalized cluster algebras and Laurent mutation invariants

Abstract

We introduce mutation-preserving generalized cluster algebras, for which the generalized cluster mutation in each direction is independent of the seed in the mutation equivalence class. We classify all irreducible generalized cluster algebras with this property. Then, a Markov-type Diophantine equation $x^2+y^2+z^2+2yz=kxyz$ is studied, which has a structure of the mutation-preserving generalized cluster algebra. We prove that positive integer solutions exist if and only if $1\leq k\leq 5$ and determine all their orbits under the associated generalized cluster mutation groups. In particular, multiple orbits occur for each $k=1,3$, whereas the solutions form a single orbit for each $ k=2,4,5$. We then classify all generalized Markov Laurent mutation invariants. As an application, a conjecture proposed by Chen-Li is proved, showing that every Laurent mutation invariant of irreducible sign-equivalent cluster algebras is essentially a polynomial in the corresponding basic invariant.