Matching-to-Sample Task Training of a Killer Whale (Orcinus orca)
Ayumu Santa, Koji Kanda, Tomoya Kako, Momoko Miyajima, Ikuma Adachi

TL;DR
Researchers trained a killer whale to perform visual tasks using a monitor underwater, opening new ways to study cetacean cognition.
Contribution
A novel method for conducting matching-to-sample tasks with killer whales using underwater monitors was developed and validated.
Findings
The killer whale successfully performed mirror image discrimination tasks using a monitor through an underwater window.
Mirror image pairs were more difficult to identify than normal image pairs for the killer whale.
The method allows for simpler, controlled experiments and potential interspecies comparisons.
Abstract
“How do animals perceive the world, and what are they thinking about?” To approach these questions, a method where animals face a touch screen and work on various visual tasks was used. There have not been many studies conducted on cetaceans (e.g., dolphins and whales) because the presence of water makes it difficult to use the electronic devices needed to study them. In this study, we aimed to train one captive killer whale to perform visual tasks using a monitor through an underwater window as if a touch panel were used. We started the training using real objects, which were then converted to photographs. Finally, we confirmed that the killer whale became able to perform the task even in monitor presentation. The successful use of this method suggests the possibility of conducting more detailed research on killer whale cognitive abilities, and further comparisons between terrestrial…
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Taxonomy
TopicsMarine animal studies overview · Animal Vocal Communication and Behavior · Ichthyology and Marine Biology
