Assessing the potential information content of multicomponent visual signals: a machine learning approach.

ABSTRACT: Careful investigation of the form of animal signals can offer novel insights into their function. Here, we deconstruct the face patterns of a tribe of primates, the guenons (Cercopithecini), and examine the information that is potentially available in the perceptual dimensions of their multicomponent displays. Using standardized colour-calibrated images of guenon faces, we measure variation in appearance both within and between species. Overall face pattern was quantified using the computer vision 'eigenface' technique, and eyebrow and nose-spot focal traits were described using computational image segmentation and shape analysis. Discriminant function analyses established whether these perceptual dimensions could be used to reliably classify species identity, individual identity, age and

SUBMITTER: Allen WL 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4344144 | biostudies-literature | 2015 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature