Manual laterality, grip types and tool use styles of andaman long-tailed macaques.

The relationship between handedness, grip type, food type, tool use style, tool sizes, and bout characteristics were examined amongst a group of Andaman long-tailed macaques. Coding from videotapes was done to obtain data. Ten different hand grips and seven tool use styles were documented. Results revealed a population level right handedness and a possible Level 5 laterality. Subjects preferred using the right hand over the left for precision grips. Food type significantly influenced the grip type and grip type affected tool use style. Power and precision grips were preferred in pounding and axing styles respectively. Results suggest that macaques were able to display a myriad of hand grips and that lateralization in tool use is likely to have clear advantages.Bachelor of Art