Abstract

FERRAZ, Myrna Campos et al. The use of operant instrumental conditioning with positive reinforcement for collection of saliva from marmosets (Callithrix jacchus) for research purposes. Rev. etol. [online]. 2013, vol.12, n.1-2, pp.25-28. ISSN 1517-2805.

In order to improve the welfare of captive wild animals used in research, it is necessary to apply methods that minimize the stress to which the animals are constantly subjected. Stress produces physiological changes that may interfere with the results of laboratory experiments, and voluntary cooperation through learning may minimize the anxiety experienced by laboratory animals. It is therefore important to develop non-invasive methods for the collection of biological samples and the performance of laboratory exams. The aim of this study was to train common marmosets (Callithrix jacchus) for the collection of saliva samples. Instrumental operant conditioning with positive reinforcement (reward) was applied to 24 adult marmosets of both genders. All animals were satisfactorily conditioned for the rapid and effective collection of saliva samples.

Keywords : Callithrix jacchus; stress; conditioning; welfare; research.

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