Cognitive Research in Asian Small-Clawed Otters

Abstract

Little research has been conducted on cognitive abilities in Asian small-clawed otters (Aonyx cinereus) despite behavioral and social characteristics which suggest that this species would perform well on cognitive tasks and are likely to provide relevant data for comparison to other taxa. Asian small-clawed otters are relatively long-lived and have complex social systems that t involve cooperative breeding, paternal care and reproductive suppression. These life-history characteristics have been associated with highly intelligent behavior, yet little is known about the cognitive abilities of this species. The current study explored spatial memory in Asian small-clawed otters using a modification of the radial arm maze. Performance on all measures improved significantly across sessions. These results provide evidence that Asian small-clawed otters have spatial memory for food locations and illustrate the potential for cognitive testing with this species.