Ximena E. Bernal

Papers

Total Citations

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About

Ximena E. Bernal is a behavioral and evolutionary ecologist renowned for her pioneering work on the sensory ecology of anurans, particularly the túngara frog. Her research integrates neurobiology, behavior, and evolutionary biology to understand how animals perceive and respond to complex acoustic environments. Bernal’s major contributions include elucidating the role of multimodal signals—combining auditory and visual cues—in mate choice and predator-prey interactions, revealing how subtle variations in calls influence both attraction and evasion. Her studies have shown that female frogs use not only sound but also visual cues like vocal sac inflation to select mates, while eavesdropping predators, such as bats and midges, exploit these signals. This work has profound implications for understanding communication networks and evolutionary trade-offs. With over 3,000 citations, her 2006 paper on túngara frogs remains a foundational reference in sensory ecology. Bernal has also been recognized for her innovative field experiments in Panama and her mentorship of early-career scientists. Her research continues to shape our understanding of how animals navigate noisy, information-rich environments, bridging gaps between neurobiology and natural behavior.