The variability of song variability in zebra finch (Taeniopygia guttata) populations.

ABSTRACT: Birdsong is a classic example of a learned social behaviour. Song behaviour is also influenced by genetic factors, and understanding the relative contributions of genetic and environmental influences remains a major goal. In this study, we take advantage of captive zebra finch populations to examine variation in a population-level song trait: song variability. Song variability is of particular interest in the context of individual recognition and in terms of the neuro-developmental mechanisms that generate song novelty. We find that the Australian zebra finch Taeniopygia guttata castanotis (TGC) maintains higher song diversity than the Timor zebra finch T. g. guttata (TGG) even after experimentally controlling for early life song exposure, suggesting a genetic b

SUBMITTER: Lansverk AL 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6549970 | biostudies-literature | 2019 May

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature