Skip to main content
Dryad

Female choice scores and Peak Frequency and Duration in calls from Wood frog chorus recordings

Data files

Feb 28, 2022 version files 49.22 KB

Abstract

A limitation in bioacoustic studies has been the inability to differentiate individual sonic contributions from group-level dynamics. We present a novel application of acoustic-camera technology to investigate how individual wood frogs calls influence chorus properties, and how variation influences mating opportunities. We recorded mating calls and used playback trials to gauge preference for different chorus types in the laboratory. Males and females preferred chorus playbacks with low variance in dominant frequency. Females preferred choruses with low mean peak frequency. Field studies revealed more egg masses laid in ponds where males chorused with low variance in dominant frequency. We also noted a trend towards more egg masses laid in ponds where males called with low mean frequency. Nearest neighbor distances influenced call timing (neighbors called in succession) and distances increased with variance in chorus frequency. Results highlight the potential fitness implications of individual-level contributions to a bioacoustic signal produced by groups.