Rehabilitating piranhas
* Photo - Professor Magurran *
* Photo - Professor Magurran *
Scientists have discovered that chimpanzees have developed different ways of screaming during fighting. The findings, led by psychologists at the University of St Andrews, suggest that the subtle differences in vocalisations may have been developed to provide important clues for nearby allies.
So-called 'nuptial' gifts - often consisting of food - are typically given to females by males as part of courtship and copulation rituals in many species.
CAPTION: The Diana monkey, whose varied alarm calls indicate complex vocals tracts. CREDIT: Dr Klaus Zuberbühler
CAPTION: A transient killer whale. CREDIT: Volker Deecke.
When we describe someone 'aping' someone else, it implies they are mindlessly copying them. This does apes a disservice, according to a recent study by scientists from the University of St Andrews. In fact, it's the young members of our own species who are more likely to 'ape' their elders without too much thought.
CAPTION: L-R The Diana monkey and the putty-nosed monkey, who share living space in West Africa's Ivory Coast. CREDIT: Dr Klaus Zuberbühler
CAPTION: Dr Zuberbühler recording Diana monkeys in the Ivory Coast.
CAPTION: A screen capture of the computer simulation which will allow visitors to make a lightning "virtual field trip" to two different wild chimpanzee communities. CREDIT: Steve Smart