Man's best friend
Dogs demonstrate a 'secure base effect' when interacting with their owners, showing increased motivation for rewards when owner is present. This study reveals the importance of ownership for dog behavior and confidence.
Ethology
Articles tagged with Ethology
UCSB researchers identify the mechanisms underlying salt-mediated behaviors in fruit flies
Researchers at UCSB have discovered the mechanisms behind salt-mediated behaviors in fruit flies, shedding light on sensory biology and its connection to human brain function. The study reveals that two distinct types of neurons compete to regulate behavioral outputs, with one type activated by low-salt and another by high-salt.
Discovering 1 reason why swarming evolved offers tantalizing clues on how intelligence developed
A Michigan State University team used a model system to show that predator confusion can evolve swarming behavior in prey, allowing groups to defend themselves against larger predators. This discovery provides insights into the evolution of intelligence and how it developed in nature.
Songbirds may give insight to nature vs. nuture
Researchers can now study song acquisition, storage, and regurgitation in songbirds using MRI, providing parallels to human language acquisition. This technique allows for repeated, long-term developmental measurements of the brain, shedding light on learning, language, and neuroendocrinological plasticity.
Dogs help improve moods among teens in treatment
Researchers found that interacting with shelter dogs increased joviality, positive affect, attentiveness, and serenity among teenagers. The study suggests that dog-interaction activities could be a beneficial addition to traditional treatments for teenagers struggling with drug abuse and related issues.
Who's your daddy?
In a study on reed warblers, scientists found that males aggressively defend against potential infidelity but turn out to be caring fathers. The results suggest that females' perceived male weakness may reduce their investment in joint offspring.
James Cameron to be publicly honored with Scripps Nierenberg Prize
James Cameron will deliver a presentation on his DEEPSEA CHALLENGE expedition and donate an extreme-depth unmanned undersea exploration system known as a 'lander' to Scripps. The lander will be used for future deep-sea exploration endeavors, unlocking the mysteries of Earth's least explored environment.
Experience leads to the growth of new brain cells
A new study found that individual experiences and behaviors contribute to differences in brain structure, even among genetically identical mice. The research suggests that this process is linked to the generation of new neurons in the hippocampus, a region responsible for learning and memory.
Can the friend of my friend be my enemy?
Researchers analyzed social bonds in rock hyrax colonies, finding that balanced triads are more common than initially thought. Structural balance theory suggests that enemies of enemies can be stable configurations, contradicting classical human relationship dynamics.
Intranasal neuropeptide Y may offer therapeutic potential for post-traumatic stress disorder
A study found that intranasal delivery of neuropeptide Y reduced anxiety, depressive-like behavior, and hyper-arousal in rats exposed to single prolonged stress. This provides proof-of-concept for potential non-invasive prophylactic treatment for PTSD.
Autism model in mice linked with genetics
Researchers have linked autism in a mouse model to abnormalities in specific chromosomal regions and associated genes. The study provides new insights into the disease's causes and may lead to the development of new treatments.
Submissions now being accepted for new behavioral sciences section in JoVE
The Journal of Visualized Experiments (JoVE) is accepting submissions for its new Behavioral Sciences section. The new section will enable scientists to publish cutting-edge methodologies and innovations in video format.
Social bees mark dangerous flowers with chemical signals
Researchers found that social bees use chemical signals to mark flowers where they've been attacked, while solitary bees do not. The study suggests a link between sociability and the evolution of warning signals in bees.
Heat-stressed cows spend more time standing
Researchers found that as cows' core body temperatures rise above 101°F, they stand for longer periods to disperse heat. Dairy producers can use this behavior to improve herd well-being and efficiency by providing cooling systems.
Malign environmental combination favors schizophrenia
Researchers at ETH Zurich discovered a link between prenatal infections, stress during puberty, and schizophrenia-relevant brain changes. The study suggests that the combination of these two factors significantly contributes to the development of the disorder.
UGA researchers identify brain pathway triggering impulsive eating
Researchers at UGA discovered a neural pathway in fly larvae that triggers impulsive eating behavior when exposed to appetizing odors. This finding suggests that humans and flies share similar mechanisms for responding to rewarding cues, which can lead to compulsive eating.
Children with autism show increased positive social behaviors when animals are present
Research published in PLOS ONE found that children with autism spectrum disorders display more social behaviors like talking and physical contact when interacting with animals than with toys. The presence of animals also increases instances of smiling and laughing, and reduces negative behaviors.
Subordinate animals as guinea pigs
Researchers observed wild meerkat groups in the Kalahari Desert, where dominant females yield to lower-ranked individuals to cross roads, revealing a complex adaptation mechanism. This phenomenon may be an innate response, allowing animals to cope with novel threats and minimizing group risk.
'Get off my lawn:' Song sparrows escalate territorial threats – with video
Researchers discovered a hierarchical warning scheme used by song sparrows to ward off trespassing rivals, including matching the intruder's song, soft songs, and wing waves. The study found that birds who matched the intruder's song were most likely to attack, adding nuance to their complex communication system.
Insect drives robot to track down smells
A small robot was driven by a male silkmoth to track down its sex pheromone, demonstrating the potential for insect-inspired odor tracking. The researchers hope to apply this technology to autonomous robots that can detect environmental spills and leaks.
This is what a fish thought looks like
Scientists have developed a new technology to see thoughts 'swim' through the brain of a living fish, allowing real-time visualization of neuronal activity during perception. This breakthrough has the potential to unlock complex behaviors, including learning, memory, and emotions, by interpreting specific combinations of neurons.
Socially isolated rats are more vulnerable to addiction, report researchers
Socially isolated rats are more susceptible to addiction to amphetamine and alcohol due to enhanced reward sensitivity. They exhibit quicker preference formation for environmental cues associated with the rewarding substance, making extinction harder to achieve.
Why wolves are forever wild, but dogs can be tamed
A study by evolutionary biologist Kathryn Lord found that wolf pups and dogs develop their senses at the same time but enter critical periods of socialization at different ages. Wolf pups begin walking and exploring without fear, relying on smell, while dog pups only start to explore after all three senses are functioning.
Childhood trauma leaves its mark on the brain
EPFL researchers find correlation between childhood psychological trauma and neurological changes similar to those found in violent humans. The study demonstrates that traumatic experiences in pre-adolescent rats lead to altered brain function, including reduced orbitofrontal cortex activation and increased aggression.
Captive hyenas outfox wild relatives
A study by Michigan State University found captive hyenas excel at solving novel problems, suggesting limitations in applying captive animal results to the wild. The researchers, led by Sarah Benson-Amram, discovered that captive hyenas were more willing to tackle challenges and explored solutions.
Waterfall-climbing fish use same mechanism to climb waterfalls and eat algae
Researchers found that the Nopili rock-climbing goby uses the same set of muscles for both climbing and eating, filming jaw muscle movement during both activities. The study suggests that these fish have learned to use similar movements to meet two different needs, potentially coopted through evolution.
Decision to give a group effort in the brain
In a study published in Nature Neuroscience, researchers discovered that three distinct brain areas work together to weigh the benefits of giving to oneself versus another monkey. The team found that neurons in the anterior cingulate gyrus (ACCg) encode both giving and receiving rewards in a remarkably similar way.
Fine hands, fists of fury
A University of Utah study suggests human hands evolved not only for manual dexterity but also for making fists and fighting. The research found that human fists provide a performance advantage in punching, with increased force delivery and protection for delicate hand bones during combat. This evolution may have been driven by selecti...
Stress-resilience/susceptibility traced to neurons in reward circuit
Researchers used optogenetics to control brain activity in mice, tracing stress resilience to neurons in the reward circuit. Instantly triggering or reversing depression-like states was possible with flashes of an LED light.
Seals gamble with their pups' futures
Researchers at Durham University found that some grey seal mothers adopt a flexible parenting style, adjusting their behavior to local conditions. This approach allows them to give their pups a better chance of survival, but also carries risks if they misjudge the environment.
New form of brain plasticity: Study shows how social isolation disrupts myelin production
Research shows socially isolated animals produce less myelin in the prefrontal cortex, a region responsible for emotional and cognitive behavior. The study also found that social isolation disrupts oligodendrocyte cell development, leading to changes in gene transcription.
Social contact can ease pain related to nerve damage, animal study suggests
A new study suggests that social contact can lower pain responses and inflammation in mice with nerve damage. The study found that paired mice showed reduced signs of inflammation and allodynia behavior compared to isolated mice.
Yellowstone wolf study reveals how to raise successful offspring
A new life sciences study using 14 years of data on gray wolves in Yellowstone National Park found that cooperative group behavior and a mother's weight are crucial for raising successful offspring. Larger packs tend to get larger and win the 'arms race' of holding territories against competing packs.
Swimming with hormones: Researchers unravel ancient urges that drive the social decisions of fish
A study published in Animal Behaviour found that a hormone similar to oxytocin increases responsiveness to social information and promotes cohesion in fish. The discovery sheds light on the evolution of complex social behaviors in some species.
Prenatal mercury exposure may be associated with risk of ADHD-related behaviors
A study of children in Massachusetts found that low-level prenatal mercury exposure is associated with a higher risk of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)-related behaviors. Conversely, fish consumption during pregnancy appears to be protective, particularly for impulsive/hyperactive behaviors.
Newborn mice depend on mom's signature scent
Researchers found that newborn mice depend on the specific blend of scents emitted by their mothers, which is distinct from earlier studies in rabbits. This discovery suggests that innate behaviors like suckling may involve learning rather than hardwired instincts.
Psychology of equine performance and the biology behind laminitis
A new article explores the link between chronic laminitis and inflammation, identifying an anti-inflammatory protein APOA-IV as a key factor. The psychology of equine performance also plays a crucial role in enhancing horse's mood, emotion, and temperament to improve performance.
Understanding the brain by controlling behavior
Researchers at Harvard University have successfully controlled the behavior of worms by manipulating their neurons with precise laser beams. By hijacking key neurons, they can instruct the worm to perform specific actions, such as turning in a desired direction or responding to fake sensory inputs.
Scrub jays react to their dead
Researchers found that Western scrub jays gather around a dead bird's body and call loudly, attracting other birds to join in. The purpose of this behavior is unclear, but it may serve as a warning system or teach young jays about dangers.
Crows react to threats in human-like way
A new study shows that crows react to threats in a human-like way, with brain regions activated similarly to those in mammals. The research used a novel approach to study bird behavior, involving awake crows wearing masks, and has implications for reducing stress in captive animals.
A blueprint for 'affective' aggression
Researchers identified brain regions involved in affective aggression in mice, which may be similar to those affected in humans. The study's findings could lead to the development of novel approaches to treat chronic affective aggression.
Try a little tenderness and your brain will tell
Researchers have identified a neural signature of affiliative experience in the human brain, using functional MRI to differentiate between positive and negative emotional experiences. The study's findings have implications for understanding emotions and neuropsychiatric conditions such as post-partum depression, psychopathy, and attach...
Researchers decipher manic gene
The NCAN gene plays a major part in how manias manifest, being closely correlated with manic symptoms but not depressive episodes. Researchers found that knockout mice lacking the NCAN gene exhibited increased hyperactivity and reward-seeking behavior, responding well to lithium therapy.
With a little training, signs of schizophrenia are averted
Researchers found that rats with brain lesions developed schizophrenia-like symptoms if not trained, but those who received early cognitive training as adolescents showed no signs of the disorder. The study suggests that experience and learning can overcome neural disabilities, paving the way for new treatments for mental disorders.
Sleep deprivation may reduce risk of PTSD according to Ben-Gurion U. researchers
A study by Ben-Gurion University researchers found that sleep deprivation immediately after exposure to trauma reduces the development of post-traumatic behavioral responses. This suggests that sleep deprivation in the first hours after stress exposure might represent an effective intervention for PTSD.
Multiple pieces of food are more rewarding than an equicaloric single piece of food in both animals and humans
Research in rats and humans found that multiple pieces of food elicit greater satiation than a single piece, with increased portion sizes leading to increased intake. Cutting food into smaller pieces can make it more satiating, benefiting dieters seeking portion control.
Wayne State researcher seeks to understand effect of dog-human interaction on social skills
A Wayne State University researcher is studying the impact of training animal shelter dogs on social skills and quality of life in incarcerated teens. The study aims to measure effects on depression, empathy, and attachment to both humans and animals.
Stealth behavior allows cockroaches to seemingly vanish
Researchers at UC Berkeley discovered cockroaches can fling themselves under a ledge to vanish from sight. By leveraging their grappling hook-like claws and swinging like a pendulum, they retain most of their running energy.
Geckos, cockroaches, and robots dive off ledge, swing under to safety
Researchers have identified and characterized a new behavior in geckos and cockroaches, allowing them to run off ledges and execute a pendulum-like motion to swing underneath. This discovery has inspired the development of robots that can also perform this acrobatic move, with potential applications in search-and-rescue missions.
Virtual reality allows researchers to measure brain activity during behavior at unprecedented resolution
Researchers have developed a new technique to measure brain activity during behavior in zebrafish with unprecedented resolution. The technique allows for the simultaneous measurement of up to 2,000 neurons, providing insights into how brain regions work together to control behavior.
Better housing conditions for zebrafish could improve research results
Scientists from Queen Mary University of London found that zebrafish housed individually spent less time on the bottom of their tank, indicating lower stress levels. Individually housed fish also responded to ethanol and had lower cortisol levels compared to group-housed fish.
Locked down, RNA editing yields odd fly behavior
Brown University researchers found that RNA editing enzyme activity varies with temperature, affecting fly behavior in mating and daily routines. High or low self-editing levels can create different personalities, such as wallflowers or pick-up artists, highlighting the significance of this process in animal behavior.
Majority-biased learning
Researchers found that humans and chimpanzees tend to copy majority behaviour, while children consider both frequency and number of demonstrators. Orangutans, however, showed no such bias, possibly due to their solitary group structure. The study suggests a key difference in social learning mechanisms between humans, chimpanzees, and o...
How social contact with sick ants protects their nestmates
Researchers found that ants' social contact with sick ants promotes disease protection in their group members through low-level micro-infections. This social mechanism enables colonies to recover more rapidly from infections.
Too dog tired to avoid danger
A new study found that dogs who have 'run out' of self-control make more impulsive decisions, increasing their risk of physical harm. In the experiment, dogs with depleted self-control spent more time near an aggressive dog than those without depleted self-control.
Seeing without eyes: Hydra stinging cells respond to light
Researchers discovered that Hydra's stinging cells are linked to primitive light-responsive cells via a nervous system, enabling the animals to react to light. This finding reveals how Hydra can hunt during the day despite lacking eyes, and hints at a common ancestor with humans.
What makes a robot fish attractive? (Hint: It's in the moves)
By mimicking the tail propulsion of a swimming fish, researchers created a biomimetic robotic fish that attracted and led golden shiners. The robot's movement patterns induced slower tail movements in followers, allowing them to benefit from the leader's energy savings.
Chronic stress in elephants can affect long-term behavior
Research on elephants in South Africa reveals chronic stress leads to 'refuge behavior,' changing space use and preferences. Higher physiological stress levels result in 20-43% lower land usage, highlighting the need for wildlife management projects to consider these effects.
New insight into why locusts swarm
A protein linked to learning and memory plays a crucial role in driving desert locusts from harmless grasshoppers to destructive swarms. Researchers discovered that this protein acts as a molecular switch in social feedback loops, triggering the locusts' gregarious behavior.
Following the crowd supports democracy
Researchers found that uninformed individuals can bring about a majority decision, even if the minority is more determined than the majority. The number of undecided individuals must not be excessive, or decisions become unpredictable and follow a random pattern.