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Published on: November 17, 2012
Maplike representation of celestial E-vector orientations in the brain of an insect
1Animal Physiology, Department of Biology, Philipps University, 35032 Marburg, Germany.
Abstract:
For many insects, the polarization pattern of the blue sky serves as a compass cue for spatial navigation. E-vector orientations are detected by photoreceptors in a dorsal rim area of the eye. Polarized-light signals from both eyes are finally integrated in the central complex, a brain area consisting of two subunits, the protocerebral bridge and the central body. Here we show that a topographic representation of zenithal E-vector orientations underlies the columnar organization of the protocerebral bridge in a locust. The maplike arrangement is highly suited to signal head orientation under the open sky.
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