Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 29, 2026
Multi-unit Recording Methods to Characterize Neural Activity in the Locust (Schistocerca Americana) Olfactory Circuits
Published on: January 25, 2013
Reliable coding of small, behaviourally relevant interaural intensity differences in a pair of interneurons of an
Jürgen Stradner1, Heiner Römer
1Institute of Zoology, Karl-Franzens-University, Universitätsplatz 2, 8010 Graz, Austria.
Abstract:
Insects, as vertebrates and humans, use interaural intensity differences (IIDs) between the two ears for sound localization. They are remarkably sensitive for small IIDs of the order of 1-2dB. Here, we investigated, using an independent ear stimulation paradigm, how such small IIDs are reliably encoded in the binaural discharge differences of a prominent pair of interneurons. Starting with an IID of 1dB, these differences are large and significant, with the louder side being more strongly excited. In a comparison of simultaneous responses of left and right interneurons, more than 70 and 90 per cent correct responses occur at IIDs of 1 and 2.5dB, respectively.
