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Related Experiment Video

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Investigating Object Representations in the Macaque Dorsal Visual Stream Using Single-unit Recordings

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Neural Processes Underlying Tool Use in Humans, Macaques, and Corvids.

María J Cabrera-Álvarez¹, Nicola S Clayton¹

¹Department of Psychology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom.

Frontiers in Psychology

|October 29, 2020

Summary

Tool use in birds like rooks and jays challenges adaptive specialization theories. This review explores neural mechanisms for tool use in humans, macaques, and corvids, proposing a framework for convergent evolution.

Keywords:

causal reasoning corvids macaques neural mechanisms neural network tool use

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Area of Science:

Comparative cognition
Neuroscience
Evolutionary biology

Background:

Tool use was traditionally viewed as a specialized adaptation.
Recent research reveals tool use and manufacture capabilities in non-tool-using corvids (rooks, jays) in lab settings.
Limited understanding exists regarding the neural underpinnings of tool use in birds.

Purpose of the Study:

To review current knowledge on neural processes of tool use in humans, macaques, and corvids.
To propose a potential neural network for tool use in macaques.
To establish a framework for investigating the neural basis of convergent tool use evolution in birds and mammals.

Main Methods:

Literature review of studies on tool use and neural mechanisms.
Comparative analysis of tool use in humans, macaques, and corvids.
Synthesis of existing data to propose a hypothetical neural network.

Main Results:

Corvids demonstrate latent tool use and manufacture abilities.
Existing research provides insights into neural correlates of tool use in primates and humans.
A comparative framework can guide future research in avian neuroscience.

Conclusions:

Tool use is more widespread and less specialized than previously thought.
Understanding avian neural networks for tool use is crucial for evolutionary insights.
Further research is needed to map specific neural circuits in corvids analogous to those in mammals.