Captive gibbons (Hylobatidae) use different referential cues in an object-choice task: insights into lesser ape cognition and manual laterality.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Utilization of visual referential cues by non-human primates is a subject of constant scientific interest. However, only few primate species, mostly great apes, have been studied thoroughly in that regard, rendering the understanding of phylogenetic influences on the underlying cognitive patterns difficult.

Methods

We tested six species of captive gibbons in an object-choice task (n = 11) for their ability to interpret two different pointing gestures, a combination of body orientation and gaze direction as well as glancing as referential cues. Hand preferences were tested in the object-choice task and in a bimanual tube task (n = 18).

Results

We found positive responses to all signals except for the glancing cue at the individual as well as at

SUBMITTER: Caspar KR 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6098942 | biostudies-literature | 2018

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature