FRANCAIS

Replication is the essence of life. Life is thus essentially a matter of passing information concerning the replication process from one generation to the next. Concepts of information are thus central to the study of evolution. The general view is that this self-replicated information is exclusively genetic. However, recent studies show that the information that is inherited across generation encompasses several forms of non genetic information (Danchin et al. 2004). When information is extracted from other indivividuals this may trigger the cultural transmission of information across generations (Danchin et al. 2004). Evidence for cultural transmission of behavioural patterns has been accumulating in recent years, suggesting that culture may be a widespread phenomenon. Culture is unique in that it may be transmitted vertically as well as horizontally and obliquely, which may deeply affect evolutionary processes. My research projects are centered around these evolutionary questions.

Keywords

Specific themes: Inadvertent information, Heritability vs inclusive heritability, Cultural evolution.

General approaches: Behavioural ecology, breeding habitat choice (natural selection), and mate choice (sexual selection).

Approaches and biological models: Correlative and experimental, Birds (Kittiwake, blue and great tits, kestrels and rollers), fish, Insects (Drosophyla, Bumble bees ).