Modelling Animal Interactive Rhythms in Communication

Authored by Andrea Ravignani, Reus Koen de

Date Published: 2019

DOI: 10.1177/1176934318823558

Sponsors: European Union Flanders Research Foundation

Platforms: No platforms listed

Model Documentation: Other Narrative

Model Code URLs: Model code not found

Abstract

Time is one crucial dimension conveying information in animal communication. Evolution has shaped animals' nervous systems to produce signals with temporal properties fitting their socio-ecological niches. Many quantitative models of mechanisms underlying rhythmic behaviour exist, spanning insects, crustaceans, birds, amphibians, and mammals. However, these computational and mathematical models are often presented in isolation. Here, we provide an overview of the main mathematical models employed in the study of animal rhythmic communication among conspecifics. After presenting basic definitions and mathematical formalisms, we discuss each individual model. These computational models are then compared using simulated data to uncover similarities and key differences in the underlying mechanisms found across species. Our review of the empirical literature is admittedly limited. We stress the need of using comparative computer simulations - both before and after animal experiments - to better understand animal timing in interaction. We hope this article will serve as a potential first step towards a common computational framework to describe temporal interactions in animals, including humans.

Tags

Evolution chorusing rhythm Mechanisms Oscillators Identification Agent-based modelling Calls Zoology Evolutionary biology Evolutionary neuroscience Bioacoustics Turn-taking Sensorimotor synchronization Sea lion Beat