The multi-dimensional nature of vocal learning

Vernes, S. C., Kriengwatana, B. P. , Beeck, V. C., Fischer, J., Tyack, P. L., ten Cate, C. and Janik, V. M. (2021) The multi-dimensional nature of vocal learning. Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society B: Biological Sciences, 376(1836), 20200236. (doi: 10.1098/rstb.2020.0236) (PMID:34482723) (PMCID:PMC8419582)

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Abstract

How learning affects vocalizations is a key question in the study of animal communication and human language. Parallel efforts in birds and humans have taught us much about how vocal learning works on a behavioural and neurobiological level. Subsequent efforts have revealed a variety of cases among mammals in which experience also has a major influence on vocal repertoires. Janik and Slater (Anim. Behav. 60, 1–11. (doi:10.1006/anbe.2000.1410)) introduced the distinction between vocal usage and production learning, providing a general framework to categorize how different types of learning influence vocalizations. This idea was built on by Petkov and Jarvis (Front. Evol. Neurosci. 4, 12. (doi:10.3389/fnevo.2012.00012)) to emphasize a more continuous distribution between limited and more complex vocal production learners. Yet, with more studies providing empirical data, the limits of the initial frameworks become apparent. We build on these frameworks to refine the categorization of vocal learning in light of advances made since their publication and widespread agreement that vocal learning is not a binary trait. We propose a novel classification system, based on the definitions by Janik and Slater, that deconstructs vocal learning into key dimensions to aid in understanding the mechanisms involved in this complex behaviour. We consider how vocalizations can change without learning, and a usage learning framework that considers context specificity and timing. We identify dimensions of vocal production learning, including the copying of auditory models (convergence/divergence on model sounds, accuracy of copying), the degree of change (type and breadth of learning) and timing (when learning takes place, the length of time it takes and how long it is retained). We consider grey areas of classification and current mechanistic understanding of these behaviours. Our framework identifies research needs and will help to inform neurobiological and evolutionary studies endeavouring to uncover the multi-dimensional nature of vocal learning. This article is part of the theme issue ‘Vocal learning in animals and humans’.

Item Type:Articles
Additional Information:S.C.V. was supported by a Max Planck Research Group (MPRG), a Human Frontiers Science Program (HFSP) Research grant (grant no. RGP0058/2016) and a UKRI Future Leaders Fellowship (grant no. MR/T021985/1). P.L.T. was supported by US Office of Naval Research (ONR) grant nos N00014-18-1-2062 and N00014- 20-1-2709. B.P.K. was supported by the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme under the Marie Skłodowska-Curie grant agreement no. 751356. V.C.B. was supported by the DK Cognition and Communication by the Austrian Science Fund (FWF) grant no. W1262-B29.
Status:Published
Refereed:Yes
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID:Kriengwatana, Dr Pralle
Authors: Vernes, S. C., Kriengwatana, B. P., Beeck, V. C., Fischer, J., Tyack, P. L., ten Cate, C., and Janik, V. M.
College/School:College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Biodiversity, One Health & Veterinary Medicine
Journal Name:Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society B: Biological Sciences
Publisher:The Royal Society
ISSN:0962-8436
ISSN (Online):1471-2970
Published Online:06 September 2021
Copyright Holders:Copyright © 2021 The Authors
First Published:First published in Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society B: Biological Sciences 376(1836): 20200236
Publisher Policy:Reproduced under a Creative Commons License

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Project CodeAward NoProject NamePrincipal InvestigatorFunder's NameFunder RefLead Dept
301763How your partner's past stress affects your current and future healthPatricia MonaghanEuropean Commission (EC)751356Institute of Biodiversity, Animal Health and Comparative Medicine