Question

In the context of selective breeding for intelligence in non-human animals:

a. Intelligence can be easily defined and measured
b. FOXP2 is a gene associated with enhanced intelligence
c. There are ongoing experiments selectively breeding intelligent animals
d. Intelligence is solely influenced by genetic factors

What did Dmitry Belyayev demonstrate with his domesticated foxes experiment?
a. Enhanced strength in foxes
b. Evolution of new traits through selective breeding
c. Increased aggression in foxes
d. Improved sense of smell in foxes

Which parrot was involved in a 30-year study and demonstrated cognitive abilities?
a. Kanzi
b. Alex
c. Koko
d. Bonobo

How did Koko, the gorilla, primarily communicate in the study of ape language?
a. Spoken language
b. Sign language
c. Symbolic keyboard
d. Cognitive tests

What recent method have pet owners used to assess cognition in dogs and cats?
a. IQ tests
b. Symbolic keyboards
c. Panels of buttons
d. Visual cues

Answer 1

1. In the context of selective breeding for intelligence in non-human animals, the correct option is d. Intelligence is solely influenced by genetic factors.

2. Dmitry Belyayev demonstrated the evolution of new traits through selective breeding in his domesticated fox experiment, making the correct option b.

3. The parrot involved in a 30-year study demonstrating cognitive abilities is b. Alex.

4. Koko, the gorilla, primarily communicated in the study of ape language using b. Sign language.

5. Pet owners have recently used c. Panels of buttons to assess cognition in dogs and cats.

Step-by-step explanation:

Dmitry Belyayev's domesticated fox experiment provided groundbreaking evidence that supports the notion that intelligence is not solely influenced by genetic factors. Through selective breeding based on behavior, Belyayev successfully demonstrated the heritability of traits related to tameness and sociability in foxes. This suggests that environmental and behavioral factors can also play a crucial role in the development of cognitive abilities in non-human animals.

In the case of the parrot Alex, a 30-year study led by Dr. Irene Pepperberg showcased the bird's remarkable cognitive abilities, challenging the notion that intelligence is exclusive to primates. Alex demonstrated the ability to understand and use human language, indicating a level of cognitive complexity that goes beyond simple mimicry. This study expanded our understanding of animal intelligence and communication abilities.

Koko, the gorilla, communicated primarily using sign language in the study of ape language. This method allowed Koko to express a wide range of thoughts and emotions, providing valuable insights into the cognitive capacities of non-human primates and their ability to learn and use symbolic systems for communication.

In recent years, pet owners have utilized panels of buttons as a method to assess cognition in dogs and cats. This approach, popularized by the likes of the "talking" dog Stella and other social media-famous pets, involves training animals to press buttons associated with specific words or phrases. This innovative method provides a glimpse into the cognitive abilities of domesticated animals and their potential for symbolic communication.