1
|
Hersh TA, Ravignani A, Whitehead H. Cetaceans are the next frontier for vocal rhythm research. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2024; 121:e2313093121. [PMID: 38814875 PMCID: PMC11194516 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2313093121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2024] Open
Abstract
While rhythm can facilitate and enhance many aspects of behavior, its evolutionary trajectory in vocal communication systems remains enigmatic. We can trace evolutionary processes by investigating rhythmic abilities in different species, but research to date has largely focused on songbirds and primates. We present evidence that cetaceans-whales, dolphins, and porpoises-are a missing piece of the puzzle for understanding why rhythm evolved in vocal communication systems. Cetaceans not only produce rhythmic vocalizations but also exhibit behaviors known or thought to play a role in the evolution of different features of rhythm. These behaviors include vocal learning abilities, advanced breathing control, sexually selected vocal displays, prolonged mother-infant bonds, and behavioral synchronization. The untapped comparative potential of cetaceans is further enhanced by high interspecific diversity, which generates natural ranges of vocal and social complexity for investigating various evolutionary hypotheses. We show that rhythm (particularly isochronous rhythm, when sounds are equally spaced in time) is prevalent in cetacean vocalizations but is used in different contexts by baleen and toothed whales. We also highlight key questions and research areas that will enhance understanding of vocal rhythms across taxa. By coupling an infraorder-level taxonomic assessment of vocal rhythm production with comparisons to other species, we illustrate how broadly comparative research can contribute to a more nuanced understanding of the prevalence, evolution, and possible functions of rhythm in animal communication.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Taylor A. Hersh
- Marine Mammal Institute, Oregon State University, Newport, OR97365
- Comparative Bioacoustics Group, Max Planck Institute for Psycholinguistics, Nijmegen6525 XD, The Netherlands
- Department of Biology, Dalhousie University, HalifaxNS B3H 4R2, Canada
| | - Andrea Ravignani
- Comparative Bioacoustics Group, Max Planck Institute for Psycholinguistics, Nijmegen6525 XD, The Netherlands
- Center for Music in the Brain, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus8000, Denmark
- Department of Human Neurosciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome00185, Italy
| | - Hal Whitehead
- Department of Biology, Dalhousie University, HalifaxNS B3H 4R2, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Selbmann A, Miller PJO, Wensveen PJ, Svavarsson J, Samarra FIP. Call combination patterns in Icelandic killer whales (Orcinus orca). Sci Rep 2023; 13:21771. [PMID: 38065973 PMCID: PMC10709340 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-48349-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Accepted: 11/25/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Acoustic sequences have been described in a range of species and in varying complexity. Cetaceans are known to produce complex song displays but these are generally limited to mysticetes; little is known about call combinations in odontocetes. Here we investigate call combinations produced by killer whales (Orcinus orca), a highly social and vocal species. Using acoustic recordings from 22 multisensor tags, we use a first order Markov model to show that transitions between call types or subtypes were significantly different from random, with repetitions and specific call combinations occurring more often than expected by chance. The mixed call combinations were composed of two or three calls and were part of three call combination clusters. Call combinations were recorded over several years, from different individuals, and several social clusters. The most common call combination cluster consisted of six call (sub-)types. Although different combinations were generated, there were clear rules regarding which were the first and last call types produced, and combinations were highly stereotyped. Two of the three call combination clusters were produced outside of feeding contexts, but their function remains unclear and further research is required to determine possible functions and whether these combinations could be behaviour- or group-specific.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anna Selbmann
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Iceland, Reykjavík, Iceland.
| | - Patrick J O Miller
- Sea Mammal Research Unit, School of Biology, University of St Andrews, St Andrews, UK
| | - Paul J Wensveen
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Iceland, Reykjavík, Iceland
| | - Jörundur Svavarsson
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Iceland, Reykjavík, Iceland
| | - Filipa I P Samarra
- Institute of Research Centres, University of Iceland, Vestmannaeyjar, Iceland
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Panova E, Agafonov A. Possible occurrence of contact calls in all‐male groups of free‐ranging beluga whales. J Zool (1987) 2023. [DOI: 10.1111/jzo.13054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/16/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- E. Panova
- Shirshov Institute of Oceanology Russian Academy of Sciences Moscow Russia
| | - A. Agafonov
- Shirshov Institute of Oceanology Russian Academy of Sciences Moscow Russia
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Pace DS, Tumino C, Silvestri M, Giacomini G, Pedrazzi G, Pavan G, Papale E, Ceraulo M, Buscaino G, Ardizzone G. Bray-Call Sequences in the Mediterranean Common Bottlenose Dolphin ( Tursiops truncatus) Acoustic Repertoire. BIOLOGY 2022; 11:biology11030367. [PMID: 35336741 PMCID: PMC8945472 DOI: 10.3390/biology11030367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2022] [Revised: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 02/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Simple Summary In the acoustic repertoire of common bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus), Gulps, Grunts, and Squeaks are part of a group of vocalizations called “bray-call” for which little has been previously studied. The name comes from the alternating structure characteristic of a donkey’s bray. Sounds can be of different types at low frequencies and audible to the human hear—of short duration, produced in sequence. The function of these sequences is not clarified yet, and it is not known if they are part of the vocal “catalog” of all the different populations of common bottlenose dolphin at global level. What is certain is that bray-calls are present in two geographical areas of the Mediterranean and that the “Capitoline” individuals (Rome, Tyrrhenian Sea, Italy) emit them with greater frequency and variety than the Sicilian ones (Mazara del Vallo, Sicilian Channel, Italy). A number of 13 different types of sequences have been identified, and only 2 of them are shared between the study areas. For the first time this study identifies variants of the main bray-call elements, highlights the structural complexity of these vocalizations, and suggests addressing future research on the context of emissions and the possible function(s) of such acoustic arrangements. Abstract Acoustic sequences are commonly observed in many animal taxa. The vast vocal repertoire of common bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) also includes sequences of multi-unit rhythmic signals called bray-call which are still poorly documented, both functionally and geographically. This study aimed to (1) describe, classify, and characterize series of bray-call recorded in two sites of the Mediterranean basin (Rome—Tyrrhenian Sea and Mazara del Vallo—Strait of Sicily) and (2) investigate for the existence of possible geographic differences. The acoustic analysis identified 13 different sequence types, only two detected in both study areas. The Sørensen–Dice index revealed a low degree of similarity between the sequence repertoire of the two common bottlenose dolphin sub-populations, with the Tyrrhenian being more diversified and complex than the Sicilian one. The acoustic parameters also showed variability between the study area. Different variants of the main acoustic elements composing the bray-call sequences were detected in the Tyrrhenian Sea only. The Markov-chain model demonstrated that the transition probability between acoustic elements is not uniform, with specific combinations of elements having a higher probability of occurrence. These new findings on common bottlenose dolphin bray-call sequences highlight the structural complexity of these vocalizations and suggest addressing future research on the context of emissions and the possible function(s) of such acoustic arrangements.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Silvia Pace
- Department of Environmental Biology, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (C.T.); (G.G.); (G.P.); (G.A.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-(0)6-4991-4763
| | - Carla Tumino
- Department of Environmental Biology, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (C.T.); (G.G.); (G.P.); (G.A.)
| | - Margherita Silvestri
- Department of Environmental and Evolutionary Sciences, University Austral of Chile, Valdivia 5090000, Chile;
| | - Giancarlo Giacomini
- Department of Environmental Biology, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (C.T.); (G.G.); (G.P.); (G.A.)
| | - Giulia Pedrazzi
- Department of Environmental Biology, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (C.T.); (G.G.); (G.P.); (G.A.)
| | - Gianni Pavan
- Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy;
| | - Elena Papale
- Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche-Istituto per lo Studio degli Impatti Antropici e Sostenibilità, Campobello di Mazara, 91021 Trapani, Italy; (E.P.); (M.C.); (G.B.)
- Department of Life Sciences and Systems Biology, University of Torino, 10123 Torino, Italy
| | - Maria Ceraulo
- Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche-Istituto per lo Studio degli Impatti Antropici e Sostenibilità, Campobello di Mazara, 91021 Trapani, Italy; (E.P.); (M.C.); (G.B.)
| | - Giuseppa Buscaino
- Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche-Istituto per lo Studio degli Impatti Antropici e Sostenibilità, Campobello di Mazara, 91021 Trapani, Italy; (E.P.); (M.C.); (G.B.)
| | - Giandomenico Ardizzone
- Department of Environmental Biology, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (C.T.); (G.G.); (G.P.); (G.A.)
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Lee J, Rothschild G. Encoding of acquired sound-sequence salience by auditory cortical offset responses. Cell Rep 2021; 37:109927. [PMID: 34731615 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2021.109927] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2021] [Revised: 08/19/2021] [Accepted: 10/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Behaviorally relevant sounds are often composed of distinct acoustic units organized into specific temporal sequences. The meaning of such sound sequences can therefore be fully recognized only when they have terminated. However, the neural mechanisms underlying the perception of sound sequences remain unclear. Here, we use two-photon calcium imaging in the auditory cortex of behaving mice to test the hypothesis that neural responses to termination of sound sequences ("Off-responses") encode their acoustic history and behavioral salience. We find that auditory cortical Off-responses encode preceding sound sequences and that learning to associate a sound sequence with a reward induces enhancement of Off-responses relative to responses during the sound sequence ("On-responses"). Furthermore, learning enhances network-level discriminability of sound sequences by Off-responses. Last, learning-induced plasticity of Off-responses but not On-responses lasts to the next day. These findings identify auditory cortical Off-responses as a key neural signature of acquired sound-sequence salience.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joonyeup Lee
- Department of Psychology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Gideon Rothschild
- Department of Psychology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA; Kresge Hearing Research Institute and Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Courts R, Erbe C, Wellard R, Boisseau O, Jenner KC, Jenner MN. Australian long-finned pilot whales (Globicephala melas) emit stereotypical, variable, biphonic, multi-component, and sequenced vocalisations, similar to those recorded in the northern hemisphere. Sci Rep 2020; 10:20609. [PMID: 33244014 PMCID: PMC7693278 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-74111-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2020] [Accepted: 09/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
While in the northern hemisphere, many studies have been conducted on the vocal repertoire of long-finned pilot whales (Globicephala melas), no such study has been conducted in the southern hemisphere. Presented here, is the first study on the vocalisations of long-finned pilot whales along the southern coast of mainland Australia. Multiple measures were taken of 2028 vocalisations recorded over five years in several locations. These vocalisations included tonal sounds with and without overtones, sounds of burst-pulse character, graded sounds, biphonations, and calls of multiple components. Vocalisations were further categorised based on spectrographic features into 18 contour classes. Altogether, vocalisations ranged from approximately 200 Hz to 25 kHz in fundamental frequency and from 0.03 s to 2.07 s in duration. These measures compared well with those from northern hemisphere pilot whales. Some call types were almost identical to northern hemisphere vocalisations, even though the geographic ranges of the two populations are far apart. Other call types were unique to Australia. Striking similarities with calls of short-finned pilot whales (Globicephala macrorhynchus) and sometimes sympatric killer whales (Orcinus orca) were also found. Theories for call convergence and divergence are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rachael Courts
- Centre for Marine Science and Technology, Curtin University, Perth, WA, 6102, Australia.
| | - Christine Erbe
- Centre for Marine Science and Technology, Curtin University, Perth, WA, 6102, Australia
| | - Rebecca Wellard
- Centre for Marine Science and Technology, Curtin University, Perth, WA, 6102, Australia
- Project ORCA, Perth, WA, 6026, Australia
| | - Oliver Boisseau
- Song of the Whale Research Team, Marine Conservation Research, 94 High Street, Kelvedon Essex, CO5 9AA, UK
| | - K Curt Jenner
- Centre for Whale Research (WA) Inc., PO Box 1622, Fremantle, WA, 6959, Australia
| | - Micheline-N Jenner
- Centre for Whale Research (WA) Inc., PO Box 1622, Fremantle, WA, 6959, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Kok ACM, van Kolfshoten L, Campbell JA, von Benda-Beckmann AM, Miller PJO, Slabbekoorn H, Visser F. Diving apart together: call propagation in diving long-finned pilot whales. J Exp Biol 2020; 223:jeb207878. [PMID: 32321748 DOI: 10.1242/jeb.207878] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2019] [Accepted: 04/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Group-living animals must communicate to stay in contact. In long-finned pilot whales, there is a trade-off between the benefits of foraging individually at depth and the formation of tight social groups at the surface. Using theoretical modelling and empirical data of tagged pairs within a group, we examined the potential of pilot whale social calls to reach dispersed group members during foraging periods. Both theoretical predictions and empirical data of tag pairs showed a potential for communication between diving and non-diving group members over separation distances up to 385 m (empirical) and 1800 m (theoretical). These distances match or exceed pilot whale dive depths recorded across populations. Call characteristics and environmental characteristics were analysed to investigate determinants of call detectability. Longer calls with a higher sound pressure level (SPL) that were received in a quieter environment were more often detected than their shorter, lower SPL counterparts within a noisier environment. In a noisier environment, calls were louder and had a lower peak frequency, indicating mechanisms for coping with varying conditions. However, the vulnerability of pilot whales to anthropogenic noise is still of concern as the ability to cope with increasing background noise may be limited. Our study shows that combining propagation modelling and actual tag recordings provides new insights into the communicative potential for social calls in orientation and reunion with group members for deep-diving pilot whales.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Annebelle C M Kok
- Institute of Biology, Leiden University, P.O. Box 9505, 2300 RA Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Lisette van Kolfshoten
- Institute of Biology, Leiden University, P.O. Box 9505, 2300 RA Leiden, The Netherlands
- Naturalis Biodiversity Center, P.O. Box 9517, 2300 RA Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - James A Campbell
- Institute of Biology, Leiden University, P.O. Box 9505, 2300 RA Leiden, The Netherlands
| | | | - Patrick J O Miller
- Sea Mammal Research Unit, Scottish Oceans Institute, University of St Andrews, St Andrews, Fife, KY16 8LB, UK
| | - Hans Slabbekoorn
- Institute of Biology, Leiden University, P.O. Box 9505, 2300 RA Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Fleur Visser
- Department of Freshwater and Marine Ecology, IBED, University of Amsterdam, P.O. Box 94240, 1090 GE Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Coastal Systems, NIOZ and Utrecht University, P.O. Box 59, 1790 AB Den Burg, The Netherlands
- Kelp Marine Research, 1624 CJ Hoorn, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Walmsley SF, Rendell L, Hussey NE, Marcoux M. Vocal sequences in narwhals (Monodon monoceros). THE JOURNAL OF THE ACOUSTICAL SOCIETY OF AMERICA 2020; 147:1078. [PMID: 32113269 DOI: 10.1121/10.0000671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2019] [Accepted: 01/13/2020] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Sequences are indicative of signal complexity in vocal communication. While vocal sequences are well-described in birds and terrestrial mammals, the extent to which marine mammals use them is less well understood. This study documents the first known examples of sequence use in the narwhal (Monodon monoceros), a gregarious Arctic cetacean. Eight female narwhals were fitted with animal-borne recording devices, resulting in one of the largest datasets of narwhal acoustic behaviour to date. A combination of visual and quantitative classification procedures was used to test whether subjectively defined vocalization patterns were organized into sequences. Next, acoustic characteristics were analyzed to assess whether sequences could disclose group or individual identity. Finally, generalized linear models were used to investigate the behavioural context under which sequences were produced. Two types of sequences, consisting of "paired" patterns and "burst pulse series," were identified. Sequences of burst pulse series were typically produced in periods of high vocal activity, whereas the opposite was true for sequences of paired patterns, suggesting different functions for each. These findings extend the set of odontocetes which are known to use vocal sequences. Inquiry into vocal sequences in other understudied marine mammals may provide further insights into the evolution of vocal communication.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sam F Walmsley
- Sea Mammal Research Unit, School of Biology, University of St Andrews, Sir Harold Mitchell Building, St Andrews, KY16 9TH, Scotland
| | - Luke Rendell
- Sea Mammal Research Unit, School of Biology, University of St Andrews, Sir Harold Mitchell Building, St Andrews, KY16 9TH, Scotland
| | - Nigel E Hussey
- Integrative Biology, University of Windsor, 401 Sunset Avenue, Windsor, Ontario, N9B 3P4, Canada
| | - Marianne Marcoux
- Arctic Aquatic Research Division, Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Winnipeg, Manitoba, R3T 2N6, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Melo-Santos G, Walmsley SF, Marmontel M, Oliveira-da-Costa M, Janik VM. Repeated downsweep vocalizations of the Araguaian river dolphin, Inia araguaiaensis. THE JOURNAL OF THE ACOUSTICAL SOCIETY OF AMERICA 2020; 147:748. [PMID: 32113279 DOI: 10.1121/10.0000624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2019] [Accepted: 01/09/2020] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Araguaian botos (Inia araguaiaensis) are known to produce pulsed as well as tonal sounds. This study documents the first evidence for repetitive sequences of downsweep whistles in botos that appear to be shared between individuals, and the context of their occurrence is investigated. Boat surveys were conducted along the Tocantins River located in the Eastern Amazon over a period of 42 days between 2012 and 2018. Eighty-two groups of Araguaian botos were observed, and 43 h of sound recordings were acquired. 632 downsweep whistles were recorded in 10 encounters. Four of these encounters contained downsweep bouts (21 bouts with ≥2 whistles) with short inter-call intervals (bout criterion 50 s) and up to 161 whistles. A statistical relationship was not found between downsweep occurrence and any of the contextual parameters that were investigated, including socializing, travelling, feeding, group size, presence of calves, and socio-sexual displays. The rarity of these signals makes them unlikely candidates for individual or group identification. It is more likely that they are associated with very specific contexts, such as nursing or mating, both of which were rarely observed in this study. Further studies are required to investigate context specificity and elucidate the function of these signals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gabriel Melo-Santos
- Sea Mammal Research Unit, Scottish Oceans Institute, School of Biology, University of St Andrews, East Sands, KY16 8LB, St Andrews, Scotland, United Kingdom
| | - Sam F Walmsley
- Sea Mammal Research Unit, Scottish Oceans Institute, School of Biology, University of St Andrews, East Sands, KY16 8LB, St Andrews, Scotland, United Kingdom
| | - Miriam Marmontel
- Research Group on Amazonian Aquatic Mammals, Mamirauá Sustainable, Development Institute, Estrada do Bexiga No. 2584, Tefé, Brazil
| | | | - Vincent M Janik
- Sea Mammal Research Unit, Scottish Oceans Institute, School of Biology, University of St Andrews, East Sands, KY16 8LB, St Andrews, Scotland, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Evidence for discrimination between feeding sounds of familiar fish and unfamiliar mammal-eating killer whale ecotypes by long-finned pilot whales. Anim Cogn 2019; 22:863-882. [PMID: 31230140 DOI: 10.1007/s10071-019-01282-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2019] [Revised: 06/05/2019] [Accepted: 06/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Killer whales (KW) may be predators or competitors of other cetaceans. Since their foraging behavior and acoustics differ among populations ('ecotypes'), we hypothesized that other cetaceans can eavesdrop on KW sounds and adjust their behavior according to the KW ecotype. We performed playback experiments on long-finned pilot whales (Globicephala melas) in Norway using familiar fish-eating KW sounds (fKW) simulating a sympatric population that might compete for foraging areas, unfamiliar mammal-eating KW sounds (mKW) simulating a potential predator threat, and two control sounds. We assessed behavioral responses using animal-borne multi-sensor tags and surface visual observations. Pilot whales barely changed behavior to a broadband noise (CTRL-), whereas they were attracted and exhibited spyhops to fKW, mKW, and to a repeated-tonal upsweep signal (CTRL+). Whales never stopped nor started feeding in response to fKW, whereas they reduced or stopped foraging to mKW and CTRL+. Moreover, pilot whales joined other subgroups in response to fKW and CTRL+, whereas they tightened individual spacing within group and reduced time at surface in response to mKW. Typical active intimidation behavior displayed to fKW might be an antipredator strategy to a known low-risk ecotype or alternatively a way of securing the habitat exploited by a heterospecific sympatric population. Cessation of feeding and more cohesive approach to mKW playbacks might reflect an antipredator behavior towards an unknown KW ecotype of potentially higher risk. We conclude that pilot whales are able to acoustically discriminate between familiar and unfamiliar KW ecotypes, enabling them to adjust their behavior according to the perceived disturbance type.
Collapse
|
11
|
Melo-Santos G, Figueiredo Rodrigues AL, Tardin RH, de Sá Maciel I, Marmontel M, Da Silva ML, May-Collado LJ. The newly described Araguaian river dolphins, Inia araguaiaensis (Cetartiodactyla, Iniidae), produce a diverse repertoire of acoustic signals. PeerJ 2019; 7:e6670. [PMID: 31041149 PMCID: PMC6476290 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.6670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2018] [Accepted: 02/22/2019] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The recent discovery of the Araguaian river dolphin (Inia araguaiaensis) highlights how little we know about the diversity and biology of river dolphins. In this study, we described the acoustic repertoire of this newly discovered species in concert with their behaviour. We analysed frequency contours of 727 signals (sampled at 10 ms temporal resolution). These contours were analyzed using an adaptive resonance theory neural network combined with dynamic time-warping (ARTwarp). Using a critical similarity value of 96%, frequency contours were categorized into 237 sound-types. The most common types were emitted when calves were present suggesting a key role in mother-calf communication. Our findings show that the acoustic repertoire of river dolphins is far from simple. Furthermore, the calls described here are similar in acoustic structure to those produced by social delphinids, such as orcas and pilot whales. Uncovering the context in which these signals are produced may help understand the social structure of this species and contribute to our understanding of the evolution of acoustic communication in whales.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gabriel Melo-Santos
- Sea Mammal Research Unit/Scottish Oceans Institute, University of St Andrews, St Andrews, Scotland, United Kingdom
- BioMA—Biology and Conservation of Amazonian Aquatic Mammals, Belém, Pará, Brazil
- Graduate program in Theory and Research of Behavior, Universidade Federal do Pará, Belém, Pará, Brazil
- Research Group on Amazonian Aquatic Mammals, Mamirauá Institute for Sustainable Development, Tefé, Amazonas, Brazil
- Laboratory of Ornithology and Bioacoustics, Universidade Federal do Pará, Belém, Pará, Brazil
| | - Angélica Lúcia Figueiredo Rodrigues
- BioMA—Biology and Conservation of Amazonian Aquatic Mammals, Belém, Pará, Brazil
- Graduate program in Theory and Research of Behavior, Universidade Federal do Pará, Belém, Pará, Brazil
| | - Rodrigo Hipólito Tardin
- Department of Ecology, Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Laboratory of Bioacoustics and Cetacean Ecology, Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Israel de Sá Maciel
- Laboratory of Bioacoustics and Cetacean Ecology, Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Graduate Program in Animal Biology, Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Miriam Marmontel
- Research Group on Amazonian Aquatic Mammals, Mamirauá Institute for Sustainable Development, Tefé, Amazonas, Brazil
| | - Maria Luisa Da Silva
- Graduate program in Theory and Research of Behavior, Universidade Federal do Pará, Belém, Pará, Brazil
- Laboratory of Ornithology and Bioacoustics, Universidade Federal do Pará, Belém, Pará, Brazil
| | | |
Collapse
|
12
|
Peckre L, Kappeler PM, Fichtel C. Clarifying and expanding the social complexity hypothesis for communicative complexity. Behav Ecol Sociobiol 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/s00265-018-2605-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
|
13
|
Van Cise AM, Mahaffy SD, Baird RW, Mooney TA, Barlow J. Song of my people: dialect differences among sympatric social groups of short-finned pilot whales in Hawai’i. Behav Ecol Sociobiol 2018. [DOI: 10.1007/s00265-018-2596-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
|
14
|
Luís AR, Alves IS, Sobreira FV, Couchinho MN, dos Santos ME. Brays and bits: information theory applied to acoustic communication sequences of bottlenose dolphins. BIOACOUSTICS 2018. [DOI: 10.1080/09524622.2018.1443285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- A. R. Luís
- MARE – Marine and Environmental Sciences Centre, ISPA – Instituto Universitário, Lisboa, Portugal
- Projecto Delfim – Centro Português de Estudo dos Mamíferos Marinhos, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - I. S. Alves
- MARE – Marine and Environmental Sciences Centre, ISPA – Instituto Universitário, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - F. V. Sobreira
- MARE – Marine and Environmental Sciences Centre, ISPA – Instituto Universitário, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - M. N. Couchinho
- MARE – Marine and Environmental Sciences Centre, ISPA – Instituto Universitário, Lisboa, Portugal
- Projecto Delfim – Centro Português de Estudo dos Mamíferos Marinhos, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - M. E. dos Santos
- MARE – Marine and Environmental Sciences Centre, ISPA – Instituto Universitário, Lisboa, Portugal
- Projecto Delfim – Centro Português de Estudo dos Mamíferos Marinhos, Lisboa, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Visser F, Kok AC, Oudejans MG, Scott-Hayward LA, DeRuiter SL, Alves AC, Antunes RN, Isojunno S, Pierce GJ, Slabbekoorn H, Huisman J, Miller PJO. Vocal foragers and silent crowds: context-dependent vocal variation in Northeast Atlantic long-finned pilot whales. Behav Ecol Sociobiol 2017; 71:170. [PMID: 29167596 PMCID: PMC5674111 DOI: 10.1007/s00265-017-2397-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2017] [Revised: 10/12/2017] [Accepted: 10/13/2017] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Vocalisations form a key component of the social interactions and foraging behaviour of toothed whales. We investigated changes in calling and echolocation behaviour of long-finned pilot whales between foraging and non-foraging periods, by combining acoustic recordings and diving depth data from tagged individuals with concurrent surface observations on social behaviour of their group. The pilot whales showed marked vocal variation, specific to foraging and social context. During periods of foraging, pilot whales showed more vocal activity than during non-foraging periods (rest, travel). In addition to the expected increase in echolocation activity, call rates also increased, suggesting that pilot whales communicate more during foraging. Furthermore, calls with multiple inflections occurred more often immediately before and after foraging dives and during the early descent and late ascent phases of foraging dives. However, these calls were almost never detected at diving depths of the tagged whale beyond 350 m. Calls with no or few inflections were produced at all times, irrespective of diving depth of the tagged whale. We discuss possible explanations for the distinct vocal variation associated with foraging periods. In addition, during non-foraging periods, the pilot whales were found to be more silent (no calling or echolocation) in larger, more closely spaced groups. This indicates that increased levels of social cohesion may release the need to stay in touch acoustically. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Social toothed whales rely on vocalisations to find prey and interact with conspecifics. Species are often highly vocal and can have elaborate call repertoires. However, it often remains unclear how their repertoire use correlates to specific social and behavioural contexts, which is vital to understand toothed whale foraging strategies and sociality. Combining on-animal tag recordings of diving and acoustic behaviour with observations of social behaviour, we found that pilot whales produce more calls during foraging than during non-foraging periods. Moreover, highly inflected calls were closely associated to the periods around and during foraging dives. This indicates enhanced communication during foraging, which may, for example, enable relocation of conspecifics or sharing of information. Whales reduced their vocal activity (calling and echolocation) at increased levels of social cohesion, indicating that in certain behavioural contexts, closer association (i.e. more closely spaced) may release the need to stay in touch acoustically.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fleur Visser
- Behavioural Biology, Institute of Biology, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Institute for Biodiversity and Ecosystem Dynamics, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Kelp Marine Research, Hoorn, The Netherlands
| | - Annebelle C.M. Kok
- Behavioural Biology, Institute of Biology, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | | | - Lindesay A.S. Scott-Hayward
- Centre for Research into Ecological and Environmental Modelling (CREEM), University of St Andrews, Scotland, UK
| | - Stacy L. DeRuiter
- Centre for Research into Ecological and Environmental Modelling (CREEM), University of St Andrews, Scotland, UK
- Department of Mathematics and Statistics, Calvin College, Grand Rapids, MI USA
| | - Ana C. Alves
- Sea Mammal Research Unit, Scottish Oceans Institute, University of St Andrews, Scotland, UK
| | - Ricardo N. Antunes
- Sea Mammal Research Unit, Scottish Oceans Institute, University of St Andrews, Scotland, UK
- Ocean Giants Program, Wildlife Conservation Society, New York, NY USA
| | - Saana Isojunno
- Sea Mammal Research Unit, Scottish Oceans Institute, University of St Andrews, Scotland, UK
| | - Graham J. Pierce
- Oceanlab, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire, UK
- CESAM and Departamento de Biologia, Universidade de Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
- CSIC, Vigo, Spain
| | - Hans Slabbekoorn
- Behavioural Biology, Institute of Biology, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Jef Huisman
- Institute for Biodiversity and Ecosystem Dynamics, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Patrick J. O. Miller
- Sea Mammal Research Unit, Scottish Oceans Institute, University of St Andrews, Scotland, UK
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Vester H, Hallerberg S, Timme M, Hammerschmidt K. Vocal repertoire of long-finned pilot whales (Globicephala melas) in northern Norway. THE JOURNAL OF THE ACOUSTICAL SOCIETY OF AMERICA 2017; 141:4289. [PMID: 28618811 DOI: 10.1121/1.4983685] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
The knowledge of the vocal repertoire of pilot whales is very limited. In this paper, the vocal repertoire of long-finned pilot whales recorded during different encounters in the Vestfjord in northern Norway between November 2006 and August 2010 are described. Sounds were analysed using two different methods: (1) an observer-based audio-visual inspection of FFT-derived spectrograms, with which, besides a general variety of clicks, buzzes, nonharmonic sounds, and whistles, 129 different distinct call types and 25 subtypes were distinguished. These call types included pulsed calls and discrete structured whistles varying from simple to highly complex structures composed of several segments and elements. In addition, ultrasonic whistles previously not described for pilot whales were found. In addition to the diversity of single calls, call sequences consisting of repetitions and combinations of specific call types were recorded and (2) a parametric approach that permitted the confirmation of the high variability in pilot whale call structures was developed. It is concluded that the pilot whale vocal repertoire is among the most complex for the mammalian species and the high structural variability, along with call repetitions and combinations, require a closer investigation to judge their importance for vocal communication.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Heike Vester
- Cognitive Ethology Lab, German Primate Center, Kellnerweg 4, 37077 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Sarah Hallerberg
- Faculty of Engineering and Computer Science, Hamburg University of Applied Sciences, Berliner Tor 21, 20099 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Marc Timme
- Network Dynamics, Max Planck Institute for Dynamics and Self-Organization (MPIDS), Am Fassberg, 37077 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Kurt Hammerschmidt
- Cognitive Ethology Lab, German Primate Center, Kellnerweg 4, 37077 Göttingen, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Zwamborn EM, Whitehead H. The baroque potheads: modification and embellishment in repeated call sequences of long-finned pilot whales. BEHAVIOUR 2017. [DOI: 10.1163/1568539x-00003451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Vocal variation within calls that are generally stereotyped suggests multiple simultaneous functions. These vocal cues may be especially important for group-living species. We describe two fundamental call transition types within repeated call sequences of long-finned pilot whales (Globicephala melas): embellishment — discrete changes to a specific part of a call — and morphing — non-discrete small changes across a call. Of transitions between consecutive calls, 31% were embellished and 20% morphed. Modifications between pairs of consecutive calls were often followed by another modification of the same type, with sequences of embellished transitions generally alternating between ornamentation and simplification. Ten classes of embellishment varied in rate of occurrence as well as temporal location within a call. Most common were the addition/deletion of pulsed or tonal elements. Functions of these modifications could include conveying information on location or the emotional state of the signaller, or they could be products of vocal innovation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth M.J. Zwamborn
- Department of Biology, Dalhousie University, 1355 Oxford Street, Halifax, NS, Canada B3H 4J1
| | - Hal Whitehead
- Department of Biology, Dalhousie University, 1355 Oxford Street, Halifax, NS, Canada B3H 4J1
| |
Collapse
|