ISSN:
1432-1904
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Biology
,
Chemistry and Pharmacology
,
Natural Sciences in General
Notes:
Abstract Electrocommunication in mormyrid fish from African freshwaters is a challenging research field in neuroethology (Turner et al. 1999). However, virtually nothing is known about electrocommunication within natural mormyrid populations involving sympatric, syntopic species. Here we report on the nocturnal activities and electrocommunication among three syntopic species in a spacious laboratory setting resembling the natural one. Petrocephalus catostoma, Cyphomyrus discorhynchus, and Hippopotamyrus sp. nov. differ characteristically in their behavior, such as in territorial defense, schooling, and joining members of other species during foraging. Comparing social encounters within and between species, the first evidence for interspecific electrocommunication among syntopic species was found.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s001140050693
