Skill mastery inhibits adoption of observed alternative solutions among chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes)

摘要: Geographic variation in socially transmitted skills and signals, similar to human culture, has been well documented for great apes. The rules governing the adoption of novel behaviours, however, are still largely unknown. We conducted an innovation-and-transmission experiment with two groups chimpanzees living at hopE Primate Sanctuary Ganserndorf, Austria, presenting a board on which food had be manoeuvred around obstacles acquired. Most used sticks acquire food, but five adults independently invented technique, rattling, was subsequently tested by almost all group members. However, individuals who become proficient were reluctant switch despite it being more efficient. Similarly, after rattling prevented, rattle specialists kept trying made no attempt use stick their knowledge about its existence. conclude that innovators stimulate others solutions they display, nevertheless conservative; mastery skill inhibits further exploration, hence alternative techniques even if these Consequently, conformity among members should not expected apes when develop proficiency different techniques. Conservatism thus joins as mechanism bring cultural uniformity stability.