The Vervet monkey was brought to the Caribbean about 300 years ago and has become known for snatching alcoholic beverages from unsuspecting vacationers. The up side is that the alcohol-loving monkeys’ party-snatching behavior may give scientists a clue about alcoholism in humans.
Researchers have found that the Vervet monkey, like its human counterpart, is usually a social drinker, but as many as 15 percent drink heavily, and 5 percent are binge drinkers who consume alcohol to drunkenness, start brawls and pass out.
Studying Primate Alcoholism
Vervet Monkeys Steal Drinks, Reveal Clues About Human Drinking Habits
Trend Themes
1. Primate Alcoholism Research - Opportunity to gain insights into alcoholism in humans by studying the drinking behaviors of Vervet monkeys.
2. Social Drinking in Primates - Opportunity to explore the sociability aspect of drinking and its effects on primate behavior.
3. Prevalence of Binge Drinking in Primates - Opportunity to investigate and understand the triggers and consequences of binge drinking in Vervet monkeys.
Industry Implications
1. Pharmaceuticals - Investigate potential drug candidates for treating alcoholism in humans, based on insights gained from primate alcoholism research.
2. Behavioral Therapy - Develop new approaches for addressing binge drinking and social drinking behaviors in humans, based on research on primate alcoholism.
3. Tourism - Develop strategies for preventing Vervet monkeys from stealing drinks from tourists, based on behavioral insights gained from studying their drinking patterns.