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Maze Path Selection in the Turtle (Chrysemys): A Quasi-Comparative Study

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Abstract

5 fresh water turtles (Chrysemys) were run in each of 4 groups in a maze containing 3 different length pathways: long (108″), medium (84″), and short (60″). Subjects in Group I had 16 free choice trials. Subjects in Groups II, III, and IV were given 16 forced choice trials to the long, medium, and short pathways respectively, followed by 16 free choice trials.

Contrary to earlier findings (Spigel, 1966), no reliable preferences for any of the pathways were found. The apparent weaknesses of this type of “quasi-comparative” approach were discussed.

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Hart, R.R., Cogan, D.C. & Williamson, L.L. Maze Path Selection in the Turtle (Chrysemys): A Quasi-Comparative Study. Psychol Rec 19, 301–304 (1969). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF03393852

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF03393852

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