A Neuroethological Approach to Song Behavior and Perception in European Starlings: Interrelationships Among Testosterone, Neuroanatomy, Immediate Early Gene Expression, and Immune Function

摘要: Publisher Summary The purpose of this chapter is to review studies on the interrelationships among endocrine state, brain mechanisms for song perception and production, immunocompetence relate these question female choice based male in European starlings (Sturnus vulgaris). illustrates how by studying a single species from multiple viewpoints one can start make connections major physiological communications systems—namely, nervous system, immune system. This approach needed address behavior controlled concomitantly systems that regulate behavioral output have themselves been shaped natural sexual selection. Song long complex include imitations sounds other species. Several lines evidence support contention starling important mate choice. members songbirds (suborder Passeres or Oscines) evolved suite neural specializations association with their sophisticated vocal abilities, which facilitate learning, song. One consider as sequence phrases motifs, where each motif an acoustically event. primary adaptive function attracting obtaining mates. Male star lings produce used females choose mates breeding context. Females tend prefer males songs organized into bouts. These illustrate investigations functional significance provide tools implement neuroethological investigation mechanisms.