Evolution Of The Communication Brain In Control Of Mammalian Vocalization

The evolution of the brain structures mediating vocal production in mammals is outlined. The structures together form a system. Central to this system is an ancient core that is found in all vertebrates. Mammals have added components in the cerebral cortex, consisting of a limbic midline cortex, as well as neocortical areas that influence laryngeal movement. Together, the elements of this system regulate the broad functional categories of vocalizations, along with the subtle nuances that reflect variation in motivational state, social context, and developmental status of the vocalizer. Despite the great variety of acoustic qualities and species differences found in mammalian vocalizations, the brain pathways and circuits regulating their expression appear to have changed very little over the course of evolution.