Nonlinear phenomena in vertebrate vocalizations: mechanisms and communicative functions

Nonlinear phenomena (NLP) are acoustic irregularities that are widespread in animal and human vocal repertoires, as well as in music. These phenomena have recently attracted considerable interest but, surprisingly, have never been the subject of a comprehensive review. NLP result from irregular sound production, contribute to perceptual harshness, and have long been considered nonadaptive vocal features or by-products of sound production characterizing pathological voices. This view is beginning to change: NLP are increasingly documented in nonverbal vocalizations of healthy humans, and an impressive variety of acoustic irregularities are found in the vocalizations of nonhuman vertebrates. Indeed, evidence is accumulating that NLP have evolved to serve specific functions such as attracting listeners' attention, signalling high arousal, or communicating aggression, size, dominance, distress and/or pain. This special issue presents a selection of theoretical and empirical studies showcasing novel concepts and analysis tools to address the following key questions: How are NLP in vertebrate vocalizations defined and classified? What are their biomechanical origins? What are their communicative functions? How and why did they evolve? We also discuss the broader significance and societal implications of research on NLP for non-invasively monitoring and improving human and animal welfare.This article is part of the theme issue 'Nonlinear phenomena in vertebrate vocalizations: mechanisms and communicative functions'.