Experimental studies on food selective behavior in squirrel monkeys fed on riboflavin deficient diet.

The present study was conducted to determine the extent to which squirrel monkeys might demonstrate self-selective behavior when fed a riboflavin deficient diet, and the extent to which such a diet might lead to digestive disturbances, general weakness, lack of vigor, and loss of weight for such animals. Ss included 12 male squirrel monkeys approximately eight months of age. Experimental Ss, fed a riboflavin deficient diet, were tested on performance on a T-maze, a "vigor roller apparatus," and observed for digestive disturbances, general weakness, and loss of weight. Control Ss, fed a balanced diet, were given the same procedure. Significant results from the .001 to the .05 levels indicated experimental S s preferred a high riboflavin diet after the diet was deficient in this substance, and indicated digestive disturbances, lack of vigor, and loss of weight as compared with the control Ss.