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The secret of underwater communication: Why does Astatotilapia burtoni rely on sound for courtship?
In Jeju Lake and its surrounding waters, the fish Astatotilapia burtoni not only attracts attention with its colorful appearance, but also becomes the subject of research by biologists due to its unique courtship behavior and social patterns. This fish, which lives in freshwater lakes and swamps, displays a diverse and adaptive courtship method, especially the use of sound transmission, which gives it an advantage in the courtship competition in the underwater world.
The social behavior of A. burtoni demonstrates the flexibility and adaptability of its males in different social environments, which not only changes their physiological state but also affects their overall reproductive success.
Social Behavior
Reversible male social roles
Males of Astatotilapia burtoni display two reversible phenotypes, allowing these fish to quickly switch roles depending on the social environment. Such changes involve substantial changes in reproductive behavior as well as brain structure.
Males living in the same water body will rapidly switch to a non-territorial role when faced with a larger individual, typically within a few weeks.
The influence of hormones
The stress hormone cortisol plays a key role in males' social status and affects their reproductive ability, according to research. When faced with chronic stress, these fish may divert energy toward coping rather than reproduction.
The influence of nearby females
Female A. burtoni also have a high degree of flexibility in their social behavior, adjusting their preference for males according to changes in their physiological state. This integration of signals has important implications for reproductive behavior.
When females are pregnant, they prefer to choose dominant males for mating.
Reproductive Behavior
Male courtship and oral brooding
Males of Astatotilapia burtoni attract females through their brightly colored dorsal fins and a variety of behaviors, and when females are ready to incubate their eggs, males display more mating behaviors toward them.
This series of behaviors not only includes physical attraction, but also involves the transmission of sound signals.
Communication methods
Sound signal
Another unique feature of this fish is its use of sound signals. Males of Astatotilapia burtoni are able to use vocalizations for courtship, which provides an interesting contrast to their color displays.
Reproduction Purpose
The study shows that the sounds released by males are closely related to their body vibration behavior, and the frequency and intensity of this courtship call will vary depending on their breeding cycle. This suggests that auditory perception is affected by physiological state and hormone levels.
Under the influence of underwater noise, males' courtship methods may also change, which challenges their advantages in social and reproductive aspects.
Our research is helping us better understand the mysteries of underwater communication and uncovering the amazing vocal signals and social strategies that Astatotilapia burtoni relies on during reproduction. However, how many mysteries remain unsolved behind these eye-catching behaviors?
