Abstract
Recently, within the biology literature, there has been some interest in exploring the evolutionary function of animal displays through computer simulations of evolutionary processes. Here we provide a critique of an exploration of the evolutionary function of complex symmetrical displays. We investigate the hypothesis that complex symmetrical signal form is the product of a `hidden preference' inherent in all sensory systems (i.e. a universal sensory bias). Through extending previous work and relaxing its assumptions we reveal that the posited `hidden preference' for complex symmetry is in reality a preference for homogeneity. The resulting implications for further accounts of the evolutionary function of complex symmetrical patterning are considered.
Original language | English |
---|---|
Pages (from-to) | 505-511 |
Number of pages | 7 |
Journal | Proceedings of the Royal Society B: Biological Sciences |
Volume | 264 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 1997 |