Insect motion detectors matched to visual ecology
Article Abstract:
The spatial and temporal frequency tuning of the motor-sensitive neurons of insects corresponds to the type of motion related to their flying behavior. The neurons of insects, such as hawkmoths and bee-flies, that hover for long durations are tuned to low temporal frequencies. This increases the time duration between comparison of signals at adjacent locations, and sensitivity to low velocities. The neurons of insects, such as bumblebees and butterflies, that do not hover are tuned to higher frequencies. This allows them to respond to temporal frequencies beyond the human vision range.
Publication Name: Nature
Subject: Zoology and wildlife conservation
ISSN: 0028-0836
Year: 1996
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The rate of information transfer at graded-potential synapses
Article Abstract:
The non-spiking large monopolar cells (LMC) and photoreceptors of the blowfly, Calliphora vicina, transmit information about three to five times faster than the spiking neurons. The cells transmit about 1,650 bits per sec and each synaptic active area transmits almost 50 bits per sec. The high rate of transmission is probably the reason for the high concentration of non-spiking neurons in sensory systems. The measurements are obtained using a morphometric analysis of the photoreceptor-LMC synapses and assuming statistical independence of the noise produced at the active sites.
Publication Name: Nature
Subject: Zoology and wildlife conservation
ISSN: 0028-0836
Year: 1996
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Amplification of high-frequency synaptic inputs by active dendritic membrane processes
Article Abstract:
Sodium currents across the dendritic membrane in the blowfly non-spiking motion-sensitive neurons cause a frequency-mediated amplification of the synaptic input signals. The axons of lobula plate tangential cells respond to the high-frequency stimuli in the presence of activating sodium currents. Transient inputs produce conductance variations which have a nonlinear dependence on the dendrite membrane potential. The amplification of the signal allows the cells to respond to rapid changes in image motion. This cellular response is absent in cells without such currents.
Publication Name: Nature
Subject: Zoology and wildlife conservation
ISSN: 0028-0836
Year: 1996
User Contributions:
Comment about this article or add new information about this topic:
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