Bonobos May Combine Words In Ways Previously Thought Unique To Humans
A recent study reveals that bonobos can combine vocal calls in a manner similar to human language, producing phrases with meanings beyond the simple sum of individual sounds. This challenges the notion that such cognitive abilities are unique to humans. Researchers, led by Dr Melissa Berthet from the University of Zurich, documented 700 vocalisations from 30 bonobos, finding a range of call combinations that demonstrate an understanding of both modification and direct meanings.
Key Points
- Bonobos can produce vocal call combinations reflecting meanings similar to human language.
- Researchers identified seven different types of calls and 19 combinations among bonobos.
- Four of these combinations followed rules similar to those in human syntax.
- Findings suggest that the cognitive capabilities enabling these behaviours may date back at least seven million years.
- This discovery has implications for understanding the evolution of language in humans and other primates.
Why should I read this?
This article sheds light on the sophisticated communication skills of bonobos, suggesting that humans are not alone in their linguistic capabilities. Understanding these vocalisation patterns may provide insight into the evolution of language and cognitive abilities across species, making this study significant for both linguistics and animal behaviour research.
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