Vocalisations of the silvery mole-rat: comparasion of vocal repertoires in subterrane an rodents with different socials systems

0343050 - ÚVGZ 2011 RIV GB eng J - Journal Article
Knotková, E. - Veitl, S. - Šumbera, R. - Sedláček, František - Burda, H.
Vocalisations of the silvery mole-rat: comparasion of vocal repertoires in subterrane an rodents with different socials systems.
Bioacoustics-The International Journal of Animal Sound and Its Recording. Roč. 18, č. 3 (2009), s. 241-257. ISSN 0952-4622. E-ISSN 2165-0586
Institutional research plan: CEZ:AV0Z60870520
Keywords : silvery mole-rat * bathyergidae * vocal communication
Subject RIV: EG - Zoology
Impact factor: 1.050, year: 2009

We examined vocalisations of a solitary subterranean rodent, the Silvery Molerat Heliophobius argenteocinereus (Bathyergidae). Seven true vocalisations and one mechanical vocalisation were identified. The main frequencies of the analysed sounds (0.34-13.17 kHz) match to a great extent the frequency range suitable for transmission in underground burrows. Due to the narrow frequency range of vocalisations, motivation is predominantly expressed by the rate of tonality rather than by frequency changes. The vocal repertoire of the Silvery Mole-rat perfectly matches to Morton's MS rules, i.e. that low-frequency and harsh vocalisations indicate hostility whereas high tonal calls signalise appeasement or fear. In comparison with social species, this solitary bathyergid produces fewer calls. It lacks contact and alarm calls, but has a rich repertoire of mating calls (mating ends with duet vocalization of male and female).
Permanent Link: http://hdl.handle.net/11104/0005896