They then investigated changes in neural circuitry by quantifying in the number of neurons in the mushroom bodies and the density of their connections, as well as sensory specialization by tracing neural inputs from brain areas that process visual information and smell before sending it to the central brain.įinally, in partnership with the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute in Panama, they conducted behavioral experiments in key species to assess whether the observed expansion of the mushroom body correlated with improved visual learning and memory. The volume of different brain areas was measured and mapped over phylogenetic (family) trees to estimate where major evolutionary changes in brain composition occurred. They built 3D models of the brain in 30 pollen-feeding species of Heliconius, and 11 species from closely related genera, collected from across Central and South America. The study involved a unique synthesis of comparative data on large-scale brain structure, cellular composition and connectivity in the brain, and studies of behavior across species. The team focused on the relationship between mushroom body expansion, sensory specialization, and the evolutionary innovation of pollen feeding. Learning the location of these plants is therefore a critical behavior for them, but to do so they must presumably invest more in the neural structures and cells that support spatial memory.” This shift in diet allows Heliconius to live much longer lives, but they seemingly only collect pollen from specific plant species that occur at low densities. Stephen Montgomery of Bristol’s School of Biological Sciences explained: “ Heliconius are the only butterflies known to collect and digest pollen, which gives them an adult source of protein, when most other butterflies exclusively obtain protein as caterpillars. The findings, published in Nature Communications, suggest that the structure and function of the nervous system are closely linked to an organism's ecological niche and behavior.ĭr. By subscribing, you agree to receive email related to Lab Manager content and products.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |