#Cold Spring Harbor #Scotinomys teguina #vocal communication

Alston's Singing Mice: Nature's Musical Rodents

In the lush cloud forests of Costa Rica, a remarkable species of mouse captivates researchers and nature enthusiasts alike: the Alston's singing mouse, scientifically known as Scotinomys teguina. Unlike their common relatives, these mice are renowned for their unique vocalizations, which have piqued the interest of scientists at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory (CSHL) in New York. These researchers are not only intrigued by the mice’s auditory capabilities but are also exploring how this can shed light on the evolution of vocal communication among mammals.

The Unique Vocalizations of Singing Mice

While most people are familiar with the squeaks of typical mice, singing mice introduce a fascinating world of sound known as ultrasonic vocalizations (USVs). These sounds are predominantly high-pitched and soft, often inaudible to the human ear without special devices. However, Alston's singing mice have a different strategy; their melodious songs can be easily heard, making them the rock stars of the mouse world.

According to CSHL Assistant Professor Arkarup Banerjee, these vocalizations serve multiple purposes, crucial for survival in their cloud forest habitat. The singing mice utilize loud, rhythmic songs to communicate over long distances, facilitating their social interactions in a challenging environment. In contrast, USVs are reserved for closer communication, hinting at a complex social structure.

Research Insights and Techniques

In a recent study published in Current Biology, Banerjee and his team sought to unravel the mystery behind how these mice produce their unique vocalizations. Their innovative behavioral test, named PARId (partial acoustic isolation reveals identity), allowed researchers to evaluate the various sounds emitted by the singing mice. This examination confirmed that the mice deploy both their songs and USVs strategically—loud songs for distance and USVs for intimate exchanges.

An intriguing aspect of the study was a test that involved giving the mice helium to observe changes in their vocal production. Banerjee humorously referred to this twist as a