Sequential organization of behavior in nut cracking by semifree capuchin monkeys (Cebus sp.)

• Grant number: 11/03420-5
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Master
• Start date: August 01, 2011
• End date: February 28, 2013
• Field of knowledge: Biological Sciences - Zoology - Animal Behavior
• Principal Investigator: Eduardo Benedicto Ottoni
• Grantee: Clara de Souza Corat
• Host Institution: Instituto de Psicologia (IP). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). São Paulo , SP, Brazil

Abstract

The spontaneous use of tools by capuchin monkeys (Cebus sp.) has been studied by the Cognitive Ethology Laboratory in wild and semi-free groups. In the Tietê Ecological Park, the use of stones for cracking jerivá (Syagrus romanzoffiana) nuts has been a target of naturalistic studies for more than a decade. Recently, we also started to study this behavior through "experimental interventions" to enhance our understanding about several aspects of the selection and transportation of the tools usedby these animals. The studies here proposed give continuity to these experiments, evaluating theway the monkeys "organize" the use of tools. (AU)

Academic Publications

(References retrieved automatically from State of São Paulo Research Institutions)

CORAT, Clara de Souza. Sequential organization and optimization of the nut-cracking behavior of semi-wild tufted capuchin monkeys (Sapajus sp.). 2013. Master's Dissertation - Universidade de São Paulo (USP). Instituto de Psicologia (IP/SBD) São Paulo.