Effects of Olfactory Experience on Behavior of Guinea-Pig (Cavia-Porcellus)

Abstract

Male and female guinea-pigs were reared in the presence of the odours of acetophenone (Ac), or ethyl benzoate (Eb) or with no artificial odour present (N). The odour-choice behaviour and latency of approach to food in the presence of odours was modified by olfactory experience. Males were more responsive than females to the olfactory characteristics of the test situations and sex differences in responses to Ac were observed. Some responses of the males to oestrous females were also affected by odour.