Observational learning in Octopus vulgaris

Page 1

Running head: OBSERVATIONAL LEARNING IN OCTOPUS

Jennifer Floyd

INTRODUCTION

Introduction The present study seeks to further investigate the phenomenon of observational learning in Octopus vulgaris. The extraordinary finding that O. vulgaris chose to attack either a red or white ball, based on observation of a conditioned octopus attacking either a red or white ball (Fiorito & Scotto, 1992), is highly intriguing considering not only that octopodes are invertebrates, but that they are also predominantly solitary animals. Background Although most cases of social learning are noted in social vertebrates, there is growing evidence of such accomplishment in a wide variety of invertebrates (Webster & Fiorito, 2001), some of which do not fall under the social category (Coolen, Dangles & Casas, 2005). These studies suggest that social learning is conditioned upon ecological rather than taxonomic determinants. While it may seem an odd theory to pursue under light of the notoriously asocial and even aggressive behavior of octopodes, there have been quite a few reports of aggregation/ tolerance in a shared environment (Butterworth, 1982; Forsythe & Hanlon, 1988; Guerra, 1981; Kayes, 1974; pers. obs. R.T. Hanlon, 1991; Mather, 1982, 1985; Moynihan & Rodaniche, 1982; Rodaniche, 1991). Non-altruistic group living in other asocial, aggressive species has been reported before (Giovanetti, 2005; Uetz & Burgess, 1979), although it is not known whether these results are due to habitat and resource restrictions, or some form of loose “social” organization. Further, territoriality in octopodes is as of yet unproven (Altman, 1967; Ambrose, 1988; Aronson, 1986; Butterworth, 1982; Hanlon & Messenger, 1996; Kayes, 1974; Mather, 1982; Mather & O’Dor, 1991; Yarnall, 1969), and observations rather indicate den defense

1


Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.