Publications [#291873] of Leslie J. Digby

Papers Presented/Symposia/Abstracts

1. Digby, LJ; Haley, M; Schneider, AC; del Valle, I, Sensorimotor intelligence in aye-ayes and other lemurs: A puzzle box approach, AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PRIMATOLOGY, vol. 70 no. supp 1 (June, 2008), pp. 54-54, WILEY-LISS, ISSN 0275-2565 [Gateway.cgi]
   (last updated on 2024/04/24)

   Abstract:
   Aye-ayes, Daubentonia madagascariensis, have a larger than expected encephalization quotient compared to other prosimians, including a relatively large frontal cortex. This suggests more complex sensorimotor abilities compared to other lemurs, but previous tests have been equivocal. We predicted aye-ayes could solve puzzle boxes if they were allowed to “learn” to open the boxes via 3 increasingly complex iterations of a puzzle box. We tested 8 aye-ayes housed at the Duke Lemur Center using 3 versions of a puzzle box with: 1) a simple cover that could be pulled off 2) a single hinged cover and 3) a double-flapped cover. Each box was baited with a favorite food item. Controls were introduced only to box 3. Controls were later used as test subjects. Six of the 8 test subjects were able to solve all three puzzle box configurations. Only 2 of 5 control subjects completed box 3, despite high interest. The study was replicated with Lemur catta and Varecia variegata (n = 19). Only 3 of 12 test subjects and none of the control subjects successfully completed the most complex box. These preliminary results suggest a real difference in the sensorimotor abilities of aye-ayes compared to other lemur species. Tests are continuing to see if some of these differences are due to the distinct foraging strategies of each species.