Spatial learning and memory in the tortoise (Geochelone carbonaria)
Publication Type: |
Journal Article |
Year of Publication: |
2007 |
Authors: |
Anna Wilkinson, Hui-Minn Chan, Geoffrey Hall |
Publication/Journal: |
Journal of Comparative Psychology |
Keywords: |
geochelone carbonaria, radial maze, spatial learning, tortoise |
ISBN: |
1939-2087 0735-7036 |
Abstract:
A single tortoise (Geochelone carbonaria) was trained in an eight-arm radial maze, with the apparatus and general procedures modeled on those used to demonstrate spatial learning in rats. The tortoise learned to perform reliably above chance, preferentially choosing baited arms, rather than returning to arms previously visited on a trial. Test sessions that examined control by olfactory cues revealed that they did not affect performance. No systematic, stereotyped response patterns were evident. In spite of differences in brain structure, the tortoise showed spatial learning abilities comparable to those observed in mammals.