Computer-task testing of rhesus monkeys (Macaca mulatta) in the social milieu.
Previous research has demonstrated that a behavior and performance testing paradigm, in which rhesus monkeys (Macaca mulatta) manipulate a joystick to respond to computer-generated stimuli, provides environmental enrichment and supports the psychological well-being of captive research animals.  The present study was designed to determine whether computer-task activity would be affected by pair-housing animals that had previously been tested only in their single-animal home cages.  No differences were observed in productivity or performance levels as a function of housing condition, even when the animals were required to "self-identify" prior to performing each trial.  The data indicate that cognitive challenge and control are as preferred by the animals as social opportunities, and that, together with comfort/health considerations, each must be addressed for the assurance of psychological well-being.
Washburn
D A
DA
Georgia State University, USA.
Harper
S
S
Rumbaugh
D M
DM
D000827:Animal Welfare; D000818:Animals; D001522:Behavior, Animal; D003201:Computers; D006799:Housing, Animal; D007858:Learning; D008253:Macaca mulatta / Q000523:psychology*; D008297:Male; D012919:Social Behavior; D012931:Social Environment; D012934:Social Isolation; D012984:Software; D013647:Task Performance and Analysis; D018910:Video Games