Behavioral Pharmacology
The leaf-rolling behavior is deliberate and distinct from normal feeding behavior. The leaves function as a broad-spectrum natural antibiotic administered topically to the oral and digestive mucosa. Chimpanzees roll leaves inside the mouth…
1 sources - 4 claims
The leaf-rolling behavior is deliberate and distinct from normal feeding behavior. The leaves function as a broad-spectrum natural antibiotic administered topically to the oral and digestive mucosa. Chimpanzees roll leaves inside the mouth without chewing, so bioactive compounds act topically rather than being digested and neutralized in the gut. Chimpanzees use specific plant leaves as antiparasitic and antimicrobial agents.