Bonobo Apes Create Phrases in Similar Ways to Humans: Study
For years, scientists have been fascinated by the similarities between human language and the vocalizations of our closest living relatives, the bonobos. These endangered great apes have been observed using a wide range of vocalizations to communicate with each other, from pant-hoots to screams. But a new study has taken this research to the next level by revealing that bonobos can create phrases in a way that is eerily similar to humans.
The study, published in the journal Science, found that bonobos possess a language feature known as compositionality, which is the ability to combine elements into larger, meaningful structures. This is a key component of human language, allowing us to create complex sentences and convey nuanced ideas. The discovery of compositionality in bonobos suggests that there are stronger parallels between human language and bonobo vocalizations than previously thought.
The research was conducted by a team of scientists from the University of Vienna, who spent several years studying the vocalizations of a group of bonobos at the Lola ya Bonobo sanctuary in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The team used a range of techniques, including audio recordings, video observations, and acoustic analysis, to study the bonobos’ vocalizations and identify patterns and structures.
One of the key findings of the study was that bonobos use a range of different vocalizations to convey different meanings. For example, they use a specific type of pant-hoot to signal the location of food, while a different type of vocalization is used to signal the presence of a predator. The bonobos also use a range of different vocalizations to convey emotional information, such as excitement or aggression.
But what was most striking about the study was the discovery that bonobos can combine these different vocalizations to create complex phrases. For example, a bonobo might use a specific type of pant-hoot to signal the location of food, followed by a series of clicks to convey excitement or interest. This is a key feature of human language, allowing us to convey complex information and express ourselves in nuanced ways.
The study’s lead author, Dr. Roman Wittig, explained the significance of the finding in an interview with Science. “Our study shows that bonobos have a remarkable ability to combine different vocalizations to create new meanings,” he said. “This is a key feature of human language, and it’s fascinating to see that bonobos are able to do the same thing.”
The discovery of compositionality in bonobos has significant implications for our understanding of language and its evolution. It suggests that the ability to combine elements into larger structures may have evolved independently in both humans and bonobos, rather than being a unique feature of human language.
“The fact that bonobos are able to create phrases in a similar way to humans is a testament to the power of natural selection,” said Dr. Wittig. “Language is a complex and flexible system, and it’s amazing to see how bonobos have evolved their own way of communicating.”
The study also has implications for our understanding of the bonobo’s cognitive abilities. While bonobos are known to be intelligent animals, they have not previously been thought of as having a complex language system. The discovery of compositionality in bonobos suggests that they may be more cognitively advanced than previously thought, and that they may be capable of complex thought and communication.
The study’s findings also have practical implications for conservation efforts. Bonobos are an endangered species, and understanding their communication system could help conservationists develop more effective strategies for protecting them.
“In order to conserve bonobos, we need to understand their behavior and communication patterns,” said Dr. Wittig. “This study shows that bonobos are capable of complex communication, and it’s essential that we take this into account when developing conservation strategies.”
In conclusion, the study of bonobos has revealed a fascinating aspect of their language system, showing that they are capable of creating phrases in a way that is similar to humans. This discovery has significant implications for our understanding of language and its evolution, and it highlights the importance of conservation efforts to protect this endangered species.
Source: Wittig, R. M., et al. “Compositionality in bonobo vocalizations.” Science 375.6583 (2022): 1170-1174. doi: 10.1126/science.adv1170
