Communication

Question 1

what is a signal

Answer 1

message that contains information

Question 2

describe communication theory

Answer 2

looks at how signals evolve between senders and receivers
~considers factors like
- deception
- honesty
- impact of eavesdropping

want to now how the signal affects behaviour and fitness

Question 3

3 modes of communication

Answer 3

• visual
• auditory
• olfactory

Question 4

2 hypothesis for signal evolution

Answer 4

1. Pre-existing traits in senders
   - senders already have existing behavioural/ physiological/ morphological traits that provide information cues to receivers
2. Pre-existing biases in receivers
   - receivers exhibit biases in their sensory system, making them more sensitive to certain features than others (females having a preference)

Question 5

sensory exploitation

Answer 5

start using signals that tap into what receivers are already tuned into
- evolved due to the response it got not because it had a meaning

Question 6

extravagant signals

Answer 6

communicate info thru physical traits like bright colors or large displays
~ goes against natural selection

Question 7

why would extravagant signals evolve then? (2)

Answer 7

runaway sexual selection:
- females have a preference and so that trait gets more mates / passed on (over time it becomes more exaggerated - runs away)

good genes:
- only healthy individuals can afford the cost of such traits

Question 8

describe honest signalling theory

Answer 8

natural selection ensure the signals are honest or receivers will ignore them
~ Zahavis “handicap principle” = costly signals ensure honesty as only fit individuals can afford them

Question 9

eavesdropping behaviour

Answer 9

not legitimate receivers (predators/parasite)
- they exploit signals meant for other receivers
- many adapt to eavesdropping to minimize fitness loss