Flavor aversion learning induced by lithium chloride in reptiles but not in amphibians.
Flavor aversion learning occurs when digestive illness follows ingestion of a novel food. Such learning has been shown to exist in mammals and birds. In this experiment, we looked for flavor aversion learning in amphibians (Bufo paracnemis, Pachytriton breviceps) and reptiles (Basiliscus vitattus, B. basiliscus, Eumeces schneideri, Mabuya multifasciata). After intake of the novel food, the animals received i.p. injection of either lithium chloride (LiCl), an effective illness inducer, or a saline solution. A week later, the LiCl injection had not affected the food intake of the amphibians whereas in the lizards it had produced a strong aversion to the flavor of the novel food. These results are consistent with the hypothesis that specific mental capacities emerged with reptiles.
Paradis
Sébastien
S
Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Centre de recherche sur le métabolisme énergétique (CREME), Laval University, Laval, Que. G1K 7P4, Canada.
Cabanac
Michel
M
D000663:Amphibians; D000818:Animals; D018692:Antimanic Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000494:pharmacology*; D001362:Avoidance Learning / Q000187:drug effects*; D002025:Bufonidae; D005247:Feeding Behavior; D007267:Injections; D018021:Lithium Chloride / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000494:pharmacology*; D010802:Phylogeny; D012104:Reptiles; D013649:Taste
D018692:Antimanic Agents; D018021:Lithium Chloride