Operant conditioning of the bottlenose dolphin with electrical stimulation of the brain.

Abstract

A technique is described for placing electrodes in the brain of the unanesthetized bottlenose dolphin, Tursiops truncatus. Illustrative results of stimulation in positively and negatively reinforced areas are given. It is concluded that, compared to the monkey, the "large brain of the dolphin thus affords: (a) faster learning, (b) greater control over reactions to stimulation of subcortical systems which are motivationally active, and (c) control and use of vocalizations to obtain 'rewards' and to stop 'punishments.' " (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2006 APA, all rights reserved)