Tropical wrens rely more on acoustic signals than visual signals for inter- and intraspecific discrimination

摘要: Animals may use multiple signalling modalities to discriminate between conspecific versus heterospecific animals, or individuals that represent a threat mating opportunity. Multimodal signals used in intra- and interspecific discrimination can serve as redundant signals, each modality convey unique information. Furthermore, different show transmission properties through habitats. In this study we investigated how two congeneric wrens, rufous-and-white Thryophilus rufalbus, banded pleurostictus, acoustic visual for species tropical forest We coupled song playback experiments with models assess the importance of these both combination isolation. assessed vegetation density territories whether more densely vegetated influence signals. presented wrens treatments, model treatments song-accompanied-by-model treatments. found responded strongly but showed little no response when was alone. These results suggest rely heavily on very discrimination. The differed their trials, showing trials responding trials. asymmetrical suggests there be social dominance relationship species, being dominant over wrens. No previous studies have relative males females Our are important than inconspicuous animals living dense environments.