The Diversity and Evolution of Vocal Communication in Nonavian Reptiles

Abstract

Historically, research on nonavian reptile communication has emphasized visual, tactile, and chemical modalities. Recently, growing evidence highlights the significance of acoustic signals in intra- and interspecies interactions. Reptiles produce sounds to mediate social behaviors such as reproduction, parent–offspring interactions, and territorial defense. Many species were found to have diverse behavioral and morphological adaptations for vocal communication, with the majority still to be revealed. Furthermore, the variation in their auditory anatomy is remarkable, with some even relying on airborne sound receivers made entirely out of bone. Here, we explore various aspects of vocal communication in all living reptile lineages: tuataras, squamates, turtles, and crocodilians. We discuss adaptations associated with sound production and perception, summarize existing research and suggest avenues for future studies. We find that research on reptiles can contextualize existing knowledge on vocal communication in other amniotes (i.e., mammals and birds) and can contribute to a better understanding of its evolution.