Vocal learning: Beyond the continuum.

ABSTRACT: Vocal learning is the ability to modify vocal output on the basis of experience. Traditionally, species have been classified as either displaying or lacking this ability. A recent proposal, the vocal learning continuum, recognizes the need to have a more nuanced view of this phenotype and abandon the yes-no dichotomy. However, it also limits vocal learning to production of novel calls through imitation, moreover subserved by a forebrain-to-phonatory-muscles circuit. We discuss its limitations regarding the characterization of vocal learning across species and argue for a more permissive view.

SUBMITTER: Martins PT 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7145199 | biostudies-literature | 2020 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature