Learning processes in the acquisition of a tool using task by captive chimpanzees

Wild chimpanzees commonly use a great variety of tools, e.g. the use of sti cks to fish for ants, termites or honey. This behavior, among others, is be lieved to be socially transmitted across generations, however, limited visi bility in the wild hinders detailed studies. In a restricted captive situat ion, the learning processes underlying the acquisition and development of t ool use for fishing honey by three pairs of chimpanzees were investigated. The subjects, presented with novel artificial materials to be used as tools , showed a rapid acquisition of the behavior, possibly due to previous expe rience in another tool-mediated task and the simplicity of this simulation. Dominants demonstrated superior performance over Subordinates, possibly du e to greater access to the setting. Trial-and-error was the main learning p rocess observed. However, observation of conspecifics occurred, with Domina nts providing models, thereby giving Subordinates the opportunity of associ ating knowledge, through object and/or stimulus enhancement.