Origin and Evolution of Communication Systems
Wilson argues that animal communication systems evolve through a process of ëritualizationí.
Behaviour or physiological trait which is functional in one context becomes used in another context as a signal.
In many insect species, the male presents the female with a food gift signaling his intent to copulate.
Related species may not exhibit this behaviour, indicating that it has evolved in one but not the other.
Given the rapacity of insect females, there are plenty of opportunities for this to evolve.
If a male dragging food is set upon by a female, he may give up the food to save his life but notice that he has an opportunity to safely copulate with the busy female.
Copulation is dangerous for insect males.
Males which offer food have a better chance at successful copulation than those who donít, so the traits responsible for offering food have a better chance of surviving.
The food gift behaviour may become further ritualized by presenting a symbol of food.