Zebra Finch Song Phonology and Syntactical Structure across Populations and Continents-A Computational Comparison.

ABSTRACT: Learned bird songs are often characterized by a high degree of variation between individuals and sometimes between populations, while at the same time maintaining species specificity. The evolution of such songs depends on the balance between plasticity and constraints. Captive populations provide an opportunity to examine signal variation and differentiation in detail, so we analyzed adult male zebra finch (Taeniopygia guttata) songs recorded from 13 populations across the world, including one sample of songs from wild-caught males in their native Australia. Cluster analysis suggested some, albeit limited, evidence that zebra finch song units belonged to universal, species-wide categories, linked to restrictions in vocal production and non-song parts of the vocal repertoire. Across popula

SUBMITTER: Lachlan RF 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4935685 | biostudies-literature | 2016

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature