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Development of an Automated Training Device for Macaque Monkeys
Jalaledin Noroozi1,2, Mahsa Ahmadi2, Atlas Shahamati2
1Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran.
Basic and Clinical Neuroscience
|June 1, 2026
Summary
This study introduces an automated, cage-based training device for macaques, significantly reducing stress and training time. The novel system enables efficient learning of complex cognitive tasks, improving animal welfare in research settings.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Animal Behavior
- Primate Research
Background:
- Traditional macaque training is labor-intensive, stressful, and time-consuming.
- Chair-restraint methods can negatively impact animal welfare and prolong training periods.
- There is a need for efficient and humane training solutions in non-human primate research.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and evaluate an automated, cage-based training device for macaques.
- To reduce training time and stress associated with cognitive task acquisition.
- To provide a welfare-friendly alternative to conventional training methods.
Main Methods:
- An automated, cage-based training device was developed.
- Two rhesus macaques were trained on working memory and delayed match-to-sample tasks.
- Training progressed from simple screen interactions to complex task completion.
Main Results:
- Monkeys interacted positively with the automated device.
- The device eliminated the need for chair restraint, reducing stress.
- Task acquisition was achieved within 30-33 days, significantly shortening training duration.
Conclusions:
- The automated device offers an efficient, cost-effective, and welfare-friendly training solution.
- This technology improves task acquisition and enhances enrichment for non-human primates.
- It represents a promising advancement for neuroscience research utilizing primate models.
