Researchers found the creatures unconsciously synchronise their movements to fit in with their friends.
It is thought this may help with bonding and group interaction and tallies with human behaviour.
People are known to adapt their pace so they walk in step with each other or clap in unison at the end of a concert.
The study of monkeys could help shed light on human behavioural dysfunctions, such as when patients with autism uncontrollably imitate others.
People are known to adapt their pace so they walk in step with each other or clap in unison at the end of a concert
Pairs of Japanese macaque monkeys were taught to push a button with one hand.
Animals were seen to modify their movements – increasing or decreasing the speed of their pushing – to match that of their partners. Why they do it is unclear.
But the scientists, from Japan’s RIKEN Brain Science Institute, said in the journal Scientific Reports: “This may be a vital aspect of other socially adaptive behaviour, important for survival in the wild.”