The honesty of bird song: multiple constraints for multiple traits
2002; Elsevier BV; Volume: 17; Issue: 3 Linguagem: Inglês
10.1016/s0169-5347(02)02410-2
ISSN1872-8383
Autores Tópico(s)Plant and animal studies
ResumoAbstract The function of bird song is closely linked to sexual selection. A fundamental question regarding the evolution of sexually selected male signals is how their honesty is maintained. The neural space required for storing a large song repertoire size has traditionally been identified as a key constraint. However, it is often forgotten that bird song is a multifaceted behaviour, and that the different characters that comprise it have specific costs. Recent research has revealed the existence of new constraints, such as social aggression or learning opportunities, which limit the expression of several song characteristics. We review the existing evidence for each of these constraints, revealing some major gaps in our knowledge of this fascinating biological system. Bird song is a multifaceted behaviour comprising of different characteristics that have specific costs. New constraints are highlighted that limit the expression of several of these characteristics
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