Simple discrimination and identity matching-to-sample using theree-dimensional stimuli in capuchin monkeys – Cebus apella

Abstract

Previous studies suggested that using three-dimensional stimuli in discriminative tasks may facilitate the development of stimulus control relations planned by the experimenter. The current study investigates the possibility of carrying out reversals of simple discriminations and identity matching-to-sample wich capuchin monkeys (Cebus apella) and verifies if generalized identity matching can be obtained with this kind of subjects using three-dimensional stimuli. Two capuchin monkeys (Cebus apella) were exposed to a sequence of training procedures with three-dimensional objects as stimuli in simple discrimination and identity matching-to-sample tasks. The results indicate that Cebus apella were able to manipulate three-dimensional objects without breaking them; to learn highly accurate simple and conditional discriminations quickly; to show quick recovery of accuracy in simple discrimination reversals; and to show emergent generalized , matching-to-sample when these objects-stimulus are used.