USF-LVHN SELECT

Turtles outsmart rapid environmental change: The role of cognition in navigation.

Publication/Presentation Date

1-1-2015

Abstract

Animals inhabiting changing environments show high levels of cognitive plasticity. Cognition may be a means by which animals buffer the impact of environmental change. However, studies examining the evolution of cognition seldom compare populations where change is rapid and selection pressures are strong. We investigated this phenomenon by radiotracking experienced and naïve Eastern painted turtles (Chrysemys picta) as they sought new habitats when their pond was drained. Resident adults repeatedly used specific routes to permanent water sources with exceptional precision, while adults translocated to the site did not. Naïve 1-3 y olds from both populations used the paths taken by resident adults, an ability lost by age 4. Experience did not, however, influence the timing of movement or the latency to begin navigation. This suggests that learning during a critical period may be important for how animals respond to changing environments, highlighting the importance of incorporating cognition into conservation.

Volume

8

Issue

6

First Page

1052922

Last Page

1052922

ISSN

1942-0889

Disciplines

Medical Education | Medicine and Health Sciences

PubMedID

27065017

Department(s)

USF-LVHN SELECT Program, USF-LVHN SELECT Program Students

Document Type

Article

Link to Full Text

Share

COinS