My research considers the motion ecology of the Jacky lizard (Amphibolurus muricatus), focussing on communication strategies, but also the recognition of predators and detection of prey items.
Male Jacky lizards perform highly stereotyped displays during territorial disputes that presumably function to 'inform' other lizards (receivers) about the quality of the displaying lizard. In order for this transfer of information to be effective, the receiver first must detect the signal. For signals defined by movement, the probability of detection can be influenced by other visual motion in the environment, such as the motion of wind-blown plants. I am utilising quantitative techniques that allow me to compare the type of motion information the visual system has to distinguish, and the type of cues that are important for detection. This research will contribute to understanding signal evolution and visual motion processing. [ More details, images & movies ]
Although Jacky lizards are preyed upon by snakes (like the red-bellied black snake, Pseudechis porphyriacus), the primary threat facing adult lizards are aerial predators like the kookaburra (Dacelo novaeguineae) that swoop down on unsuspecting victims. [ More details & movies ]
Movement is a key factor in the initiation of predatory behaviour in all sit and wait predators that feed primarily on moving prey. Unlike many amphibians, lizards do not appear to have an simple response to stimuli with movement and morphological characteristics similar to prey items. It appears that lizards attend to a variety of movement patterns, but their response is mediated by further analysis of stimulus characteristics. This makes lizards ideal for analysing how stimulus characteristics effect the probability of attack.
Last Update: December 12, 2006