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Methylmercury-induced changes in operant discrimination by the pigeon
The Journal of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics
|September 1, 1980
Summary
Methylmercury exposure in pigeons significantly impaired their operant behavior, reducing reinforcement rates and increasing response variability. These behavioral changes were distinct from ataxia induced by other methods.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Behavioral Pharmacology
- Toxicology
Background:
- Operant behavior in pigeons is sensitive to neurotoxic agents.
- Methylmercury is a known neurotoxin with potential behavioral effects.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of chronic methylmercury exposure on pigeon operant behavior.
- To differentiate methylmercury-induced behavioral changes from those caused by other forms of ataxia.
Main Methods:
- Pigeons were trained on a fixed consecutive number reinforcement schedule.
- Chronic methylmercury administration was administered until behavioral signs of poisoning appeared.
- Behavioral data, including reinforcer rates and run length variability, were analyzed.
- Ataxia was induced by hobbling or ethanol for comparison.
Main Results:
- Methylmercury exposure (13-27 ppm blood mercury) decreased reinforcer percentage and pecking rate.
- Variability of response run length increased significantly after methylmercury exposure.
- Some pigeons exhibited consistent shortening of run length during peak poisoning.
- Behavioral changes induced by methylmercury differed from those caused by hobbling or ethanol.
Conclusions:
- Chronic methylmercury exposure selectively disrupts operant behavior in pigeons.
- The observed behavioral deficits are characteristic of methylmercury neurotoxicity.
- Methylmercury's effects on operant behavior are distinct from general motor impairments like ataxia.