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Macaques’ (Macaca mulatta) use of numerical cues in maze trials

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Abstract

We tested the ability of number-trained rhesus monkeys to use Arabic numeral cues to discriminate between different series of maze trials and anticipate the final trial in each series. The monkeys’ prior experience with numerals also allowed us to investigate spontaneous transfer between series. A total of four monkeys were tested in two experiments. In both experiments, the monkeys were trained on a computerized task consisting of three reinforced maze trials followed by one nonreinforced trial. The goal of the maze was an Arabic numeral 3, which corresponded to the number of reinforced maze trials in the series. In experiment 1 (n=2), the monkeys were given probe trials of the numerals 2 and 4 and in experiment 2 (n=2), they were given probe trials of the numerals 2–8. The monkeys receiving the probe trials 2 and 4 showed some generalization to the new numerals and developed a pattern of performing more slowly on the nonreinforced trial than the reinforced trial before it for most series, indicating the use of the changing numeral cues to anticipate the nonreinforced trial. The monkeys receiving probe trials of the numerals 2–8 did not predict precisely when the nonreinforced trial would occur in each series, but they did incorporate the changing numerals into their strategy for performing the task. This study provides the first evidence that number-trained monkeys can use Arabic numerals to perform a task involving sequential presentations.

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Acknowledgements

This research was supported by a grant (HD-38051) from the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development to the Language Research Center of Georgia State University. The authors would like to thank Michael Beran and Jonathan Gulledge for their advice and assistance in this research. All applicable federal, disciplinary, and institutional rules and regulations regarding animal care and use have been followed in the care and testing of the monkeys

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, USA

    Emily H. Harris & David A. Washburn

  2. Present address: Language Research Center, 3401 Panthersville Road, Decatur, GA, 30034, USA

    Emily H. Harris

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  1. Emily H. Harris
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  2. David A. Washburn
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Correspondence to Emily H. Harris.

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Harris, E.H., Washburn, D.A. Macaques’ (Macaca mulatta) use of numerical cues in maze trials. Anim Cogn 8, 190–199 (2005). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10071-004-0248-5

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10071-004-0248-5

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