Interspecific information transfer influences animal community structure.
Acquiring information from the cues and signals of other species of the same trophic level is widespread among animals, and can help individuals exploit resources and avoid predators. But can such interspecific information transfer also influence the spatial structure of species within communities? Whereas some species use heterospecific information without changing their position, we review research that indicates that heterospecific information is a driving factor in the formation or maintenance of temporary or stable mixed-species groups. Heterospecific information can also influence the organization of such groups, including leadership. Further, animals sometimes select habitats using heterospecific information. We survey interspecific information transfer, and evaluate the morphological, ecological and behavioral factors that make some species information sources and others information seekers.
Field Ornithology Group of Sri Lanka, University of Colombo, Colombo 3, Sri Lanka. eben.goodale@gmail.com
Eben
E
Goodale
Guy
G
Beauchamp
Robert D
RD
Magrath
James C
JC
Nieh
Graeme D
GD
Ruxton
D000819:Animal Communication; D000818:Animals; D017753:Ecosystem; D011157:Population Dynamics