Unsuccessful reinforcement of a discrete action in paramecia, P. caudatum

Psychol Rep. 2009 Oct;105(2):533-8. doi: 10.2466/PR0.105.2.533-538.

Abstract

Previous research into the possibility of learning in paramecium in this laboratory has shown that these organisms can learn to remain in a specific location based on cathode shock reinforcement. The present experiment was designed to assess whether paramecium could learn a discrete action as opposed to remaining in a specific area, using cathode shock as a reinforcer. Results for a sample of 40 indicate that such learning did not take place. It is possible that the learning of discrete actions requires a nervous system.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Conditioning, Classical*
  • Electroshock
  • Escape Reaction
  • Paramecium caudatum*
  • Reinforcement, Psychology*