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Sensory bases of navigation

J L Gould1

  • 1Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Princeton University, Princeton, New Jersey 08544-1003, USA. gould@princeton.edu

Current Biology : CB
|October 21, 1998
PubMed
Summary

Animal navigation relies on map and compass senses. Magnetite-based systems are crucial for long-range orientation, often calibrating celestial cues and providing goal direction and distance.

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Area of Science:

  • Animal behavior
  • Neuroethology
  • Sensory biology

Background:

  • Animal navigation involves 'map' (goal bearing) and 'compass' (direction determination) steps.
  • Compasses often form hierarchies, using magnetic senses as a backup to celestial cues.
  • Magnetic compasses are vital for calibrating celestial cues in many species.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the mechanisms animals use for navigation.
  • To highlight the role of magnetic senses in animal orientation.
  • To discuss the reliance on magnetite for long-range navigation.

Main Methods:

  • Review of existing literature on animal navigation.
  • Analysis of sensory mechanisms for magnetic and celestial orientation.
  • Examination of the role of magnetite in spatial memory.

Main Results:

  • Magnetic compasses are essential for calibrating celestial cues and are often hierarchical.
  • Magnetite-based senses are fundamental for most long-range navigation maps.
  • Magnetite can provide latitude, or both distance and direction, depending on the species.

Conclusions:

  • Animal navigation is a complex integration of multiple sensory systems.
  • Magnetite plays a pivotal role in both compass and map functions for orientation.
  • Understanding these senses is key to comprehending animal movement and spatial cognition.

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