Random Apollonian networks with tailored clustering coefficient

We introduce a family of complex networks that interpolates between the Apollonian network and its binary version, recently introduced in E. M. K. Souza et al. [Phys. Rev. E 107, 024305 (2023)], via random removal of nodes. The dilution process allows the clustering coefficient to vary from $C=0.828$ to $C=0$ while maintaining the behavior of average path length and other relevant quantities as in the deterministic Apollonian network. Robustness against the random deletion of nodes is also reported on spectral quantities such as the ground-state localization degree and its energy gap to the first excited state. The loss of the $2\pi /3$ rotation symmetry as a treelike network emerges is investigated in the light of the hub wavefunction amplitude. Our findings expose the interplay between the small-world property and other distinctive traits exhibited by Apollonian networks, as well as their resilience against random attacks.