ABSTRACT
Communication -- the sending and receiving of signals -- underlies nearly all interactions, and requires at least 2 individuals. Understanding signal function and evolution requires exploring a suite of interacting (and possibly conflicting) selection pressures on traits in both the signal producer, and signal receiver. Signals also can be modified or masked by biotic and abiotic environmental features (including anthropogenic effects) during transmission. Signals encode information via diverse mechanisms influenced by selection on structures used for signal production, receiver sensory and cognitive capacities, and the degree to which signaler and receiver interests align (in terms of the outcome of the interaction). Despite a long history of study regarding signal form and signaling behavior, however, we still lack a predictive framework of signal-information relationships. Advances in analytical and methodological approaches -- especially for quantifying signal exchanges and remote recording of signaling interactions -- promise new insights in signaling behavior and evolution.
