Summarize the two examples of cultural transmission in macaques that are described in your textbook.

Cultural transmission in macaques refers to the transfer of knowledge, behaviors, or customs from one generation to the next within macaque populations. Here are two notable examples:

1. Tool Use in Japanese Macaques: One well-documented example is the use of stones as tools by Japanese macaques (Macaca fuscata). In the 1950s, researchers observed a specific troop of macaques on Koshima Island where young females learned to wash sweet potatoes in the ocean to clean them before eating. This behavior was not instinctual but was learned from other individuals in their group. Over time, this washing behavior spread through social learning, showcasing how cultural practices can emerge and evolve within a population.

2. Social Grooming and Relationship Building: Another example can be seen in the social grooming behavior of macaques, which is vital for maintaining social bonds within troops. Grooming is not just a hygienic practice; it plays an essential role in the development of alliances and social hierarchies. Young macaques learn this behavior from their mothers and other experienced group members. This learning process helps reinforce social structures and influences group dynamics, highlighting the importance of social learning in macaque cultures.

Both examples illustrate the critical role of social learning in the cultural practices of macaques, enabling them to adapt to their environments and maintain social cohesion.