MODELS OF FEMALE CHOICE IN ACOUSTIC COMMUNICATION

In this article we present generalized theoretical models of mate attr action in acoustic communication. The models use simple decision rules for females and show theoretical differences between the rules in rel ative attraction of females to sound sources (calling males). The impo rtant variables of the models are the relative powers of the sources, the distance between the sources and the number of competing signalers . Relative attraction among sources is a function of their relative po wer output with more powerful signals attracting more females. Using d ifferent assumptions about the spacing of sources with respect to fema le sensitivity, data from phonotaxis studies can be explained well by either random pick or active choice models. Bioacousticians must reexa mine the use of, and conclusions based on, the two choice playback par adigm in studying female mate choice.