Tag

Apes

All articles tagged with #apes

Bonobo's imaginary tea party hints apes may imagine beyond the present
science19 days ago

Bonobo's imaginary tea party hints apes may imagine beyond the present

In a Science-published study, Kanzi the bonobo was tested with an imaginary juice party and other pretend tasks to see if apes can imagine nonreal events. He chose the pretend-juice cup 68% of the time and real juice about 80% of the time, with a similar pattern for fake grapes, suggesting a basic capacity for imagined scenarios that may extend beyond humans but not necessarily equate to human-style pretence; some researchers urge caution and call for more evidence. Kanzi died last year at 44.

"The Genetic Mystery of Human Tail Loss Unraveled"
science2 years ago

"The Genetic Mystery of Human Tail Loss Unraveled"

Researchers have identified a genetic mutation that led to the loss of tails in apes, including humans, around 20-25 million years ago. Using CRISPR, they replicated the mutation in mice, resulting in tailless offspring. The reason for this evolutionary change remains a mystery, with theories suggesting it may have provided an advantage for survival or facilitated the transition to upright walking.

The Evolutionary Mystery of Human Tail Loss Unraveled
science2 years ago

The Evolutionary Mystery of Human Tail Loss Unraveled

After 2.5 years, researchers have identified a genetic change shared by humans and other apes that might have contributed to their ancestors’ tail loss some 25 million years ago. The study involved developing several strains of gene-edited mice to demonstrate the genetic changes' effects, leading to the publication delay. The findings suggest that a DNA insertion in the TBXT gene can lead to shortened or absent tails in mice, shedding light on the genetic mechanisms behind tail loss and length reduction in apes, although it's not the only factor involved. This research provides insight into the evolution of tail loss and its potential impact on apes' ability to walk upright.

"Great Apes Display Human-Like Humor Through Teasing, Study Finds"
science2 years ago

"Great Apes Display Human-Like Humor Through Teasing, Study Finds"

Researchers have detailed how great apes playfully tease, suggesting the human cognitive tools that help us learn humor may date back at least 13 million years. The study observed 18 different types of good-natured teasing behaviors across four species of great apes, such as poking, hitting, hindering movement, body slamming, and pulling on another's body part. Playful teasing is distinct from other play behavior and is usually one-sided, with the teaser initiating an action toward a target. This behavior is seen as entertainment and also helps juveniles better understand their social partners, providing vital information about growing up within a social group and establishing hierarchies.

"Great Apes: Masters of Teasing and Humor, Study Reveals"
science-and-nature2 years ago

"Great Apes: Masters of Teasing and Humor, Study Reveals"

A study has found that great apes, including chimpanzees, bonobos, gorillas, and orangutans, engage in playful teasing behavior similar to humans, with the intention of provoking a response or attracting attention. The research suggests that this behavior may have evolved in human ancestors around 13 million years ago. By analyzing videos of juvenile apes engaging in teasing behaviors, the study provides insights into the evolutionary origins of playful teasing and its cognitive prerequisites.

"Humanity's Descent in 'Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes' Super Bowl Trailers"
entertainment2 years ago

"Humanity's Descent in 'Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes' Super Bowl Trailers"

"Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes," the latest installment in the franchise, is set 300 years after the last film, with apes as the dominant species and humans living in fear. The movie follows a young chimpanzee questioning the morality of hunting humans, a bonobo ruler seeking ancient human technologies, and a human with higher intelligence. Directed by Wes Ball, the film is set to release in theaters on May 10.

Primate Memory: Apes Recall Long-Lost Connections Decades Later
animal-behavior2 years ago

Primate Memory: Apes Recall Long-Lost Connections Decades Later

A study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences reveals that bonobos and chimpanzees have the ability to remember old friends, family members, and groupmates even after decades of separation. The research suggests that long-term memory is a trait shared by humans, chimps, and bonobos, indicating deep evolutionary roots in complex social networks. Using eye-tracking technology, the study found that the apes showed a greater interest in images of familiar individuals compared to strangers. The results provide insight into the cognitive abilities and social relationships of our closest living relatives.

Primate Memory: Apes Recall Familiar Faces for Decades
animal-behavior2 years ago

Primate Memory: Apes Recall Familiar Faces for Decades

A new study reveals that apes, including chimpanzees and bonobos, have an impressive memory, potentially surpassing that of some humans. Researchers conducted an experiment where apes were shown photos of old friends they hadn't seen in over 25 years. The apes displayed recognition and positive reactions towards familiar individuals, gazing at their images for a significantly longer time. The study suggests that apes possess cognitive mechanisms similar to humans, including long-term memory influenced by social relationships. The findings raise questions about the possibility of apes experiencing emotions associated with missing others. Further research aims to explore the nature of ape memory and its impact on their social interactions.

Apes' Remarkable Memory: Recognizing Long-Lost Friends Decades Later
animal-behavior2 years ago

Apes' Remarkable Memory: Recognizing Long-Lost Friends Decades Later

New research has found that apes, including chimpanzees and bonobos, can recognize old friends they haven't seen for decades, marking the longest-lasting social memory documented outside of humans. The study used photographs of deceased or departed apes and found that the participating apes looked significantly longer at those they knew, regardless of the time that had passed since their last interaction. The research suggests that apes' social memory could extend beyond 26 years and may be comparable to humans. The study highlights the importance of conservation efforts and raises questions about the possibility of apes missing their loved ones. Future research will explore if apes can recognize former friends in their current appearance and investigate social memory in other primates.