The introduction of the chromatic marimba allowed the assimilation of other musics from outside Mexico, while expanding the means of expression for Chiapans to interpret their own traditional and popular musics. Morales Avendano says that the traditional marimbas (diatonic instruments) prior to this invention were three octaves and that this new chromatic instrument was five octaves. Yet there is disagreement about exactly when the new instrument was developed and who deserves the credit for it. Claim to the invention, for example, is also made by Guatemalans.