# Collaborative Research: The causes and consequences of adaptive radiation in animal communication, from individuals to communities

> **NSF 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT** · University of Denver (CO) · $1,266,115

## Abstract

Understanding how new, novel traits arise and persist is challenging because observing this process in real time is rare–it requires being in the right place at the right time. Yet, rapid trait change is one mechanism by which organisms could respond to ongoing environmental challenges, and the origins of novelty are critical to our understanding of how biological variety arises. This project capitalizes on the recent emergence of several new, novel cricket mating songs in the Pacific field cricket. These crickets were recently introduced to Hawaii where the dulcet mating songs produced by males also attract an introduced, lethal eavesdropping fly. Over almost 20 years, the PIs have directly observed the development of several new, quiet song types that allow covert communication, attracting female mates but not the eavesdropping flies. Using a combination of field and lab experiments, the researchers aim to watch trait and behavioral change proceed in real time to learn how novelty arises in animal communication, and to explore the consequences for the community of interacting organisms. Moreover, the project will impact the public understanding of science through 1) collaborative K-16 mentorship programs in Hawaii, 2) podcast episodes that share the research globally, and 3) the production of food items inspired by this research, designed and produced by research participants, and shared with the community to catalyze conversations about animal communication.

Evolutionar

## Key facts

- **NSF award ID:** 2525976
- **Awardee organization:** University of Denver (CO)
- **SAM.gov UEI:** WCUGNQQ8DZU1
- **PI:** Robin Tinghitella
- **Primary program:** 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
- **All programs:** UNDERGRADUATE EDUCATION, GRADUATE INVOLVEMENT
- **Estimated total:** $1,266,115
- **Funds obligated:** $1,266,115
- **Transaction type:** Standard Grant
- **Period:** 09/01/2025 → 08/31/2029

## Primary source

NSF Award Search: https://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward?AWD_ID=2525976

## Citation

> US National Science Foundation, Award 2525976, Collaborative Research: The causes and consequences of adaptive radiation in animal communication, from individuals to communities. Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-06-06 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nsf/2525976. Licensed CC0.

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