An efficient computerized testing method for the capuchin monkey (Cebus apella): Adaptation of the LRC-CTS to a socially housed nonhuman primate species

Abstract

Even with advances in automated testing techniques, the capuchin monkey (Cebus apella) can be a difficult species to test in the laboratory, given its social/behavioral tendencies and typical activity pattern. Laboratories that maintain social colonies of capuchin monkeys are able to separate and test individuals, but the process can be very effortful and time consuming, and the resulting data can be modest in quantity. The present article describes procedures and apparatuses that were used to train a colony of computer-naive capuchin monkeys to quickly and reliably isolate themselves from group members and interact with a computerized test system in order to produce a large volume of data. Several elements that were important in motivating the monkeys to participate are discussed.

What’s in a face (made of foods)? Comparing children’s and monkey’s perception of faces in face-like images of food

“…The nonhuman primates were tested using the Language Research Center's Computerized Test System (LRC-CTS), which consisted of a personal computer, digital joystick, color monitor, and pellet dispenser (Evans, Beran, Chan, Klein, & Menzel, 2008;Richardson, Washburn, Hopkins, SavageRumbaugh, & Rumbaugh, 1990). Primates manipulated the joystick with their hands to produce isomorphic movements of a small cursor on the computer screen.…”

Automated testing of cognitive performance in monkeys: Use of a battery of computerized test systems by a troop of semi-free-ranging baboons (Papio papio)

“…Unfortunately, the task only required subjects to respond to a target on the screen, which prevented predictions for more advanced cognitive testing. Other researchers (e.g., Evans, Beran, Chan, Klein, & Menzel, 2008) taught monkeys to voluntarily self-separate from their group to be singly tested in an experimental area adjacent to the living quarters. Beyond their scientific interests, all of these approaches also sought to promote animal welfare, by either reducing or avoiding the stress induced by separation from the group.…”

Exploring decoy effects on computerized task preferences in rhesus monkeys (Macaca mulatta).

“…We tested seven adult male rhesus monkeys between the ages of 13 and 34 years. All monkeys previously had been trained to use the computerized apparatus and had experience with the MTS and PURSUIT tasks (Evans, Beran, Chan, Klein, & Menzel, 2008;Richardson, Washburn, Hopkins, Savage-Rumbaugh, & Rumbaugh, 1990), including in tests in which the SELECT procedure was used (Beran et al, 2007;Perdue et al, 2014). Monkeys had access to the computer in test sessions that typically ranged from 4 -8 hrs during which time the software program was available onscreen.…”