Testosterone-induced changes of call structure, midbrain and syrinx anatomy in partridges

Physiol Behav. 1995 Dec;58(6):1149-57. doi: 10.1016/0031-9384(95)02060-8.

Abstract

Testosterone (T) treated Grey partridges (Perdix perdix) of both sexes uttered significantly longer and lower-pitched calls than controls; both these acoustic features play a critical role in mate choice. A morphometrical analysis of the midbrain nucleus intercollicularis showed a cell size increase in T-treated birds regardless of their sex. Histological study of the syrinx did not reveal any sexually dimorphic structure in experimental and control birds; the major T-induced change was a thickening of the external membranes, reported to be the main sound source in Galliforms. In conclusion, T appears able to modify not only some acoustic parameters, but also certain anatomical structures at the peripheral and central levels of the vocal system in a nonoscine species.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Behavior, Animal / drug effects*
  • Cell Size / drug effects
  • Chick Embryo
  • Female
  • Male
  • Mesencephalon / drug effects*
  • Testosterone / pharmacology*
  • Trachea / drug effects
  • Vocalization, Animal / drug effects*

Substances

  • Testosterone