The hyperstriatal region of the avian forebrain: Somatic and autonomic responses to electrical stimulation

Abstract

AbstractResponse to constant‐current stimulation of the corticoid region and hyperstriatum were studied in 15 chronically implanted pigeons. The principal somatic response in the semi‐restrained bird was head movement, which was accompanied by appropriate body and limb response in the unrestrained animal. A correlation between electrode location and response suggested a topographical organization of the corticoid region and accessory hyperstriatum with respect to direction of head movement. A number of variables affected the responses, including initial head position, stimulation parameters and anesthesia.Stimulation also produced moderate tachycardia and less often cardiac arrhythmia. Respiratory rate and amplitude changes were also evoked. A diffuse cardiac and respiratory representation was suggested by a lack of correlation between these response and electrode location.A possible pathway mediating these response is considered, and possible relationships between the corticoid region, accessory hyperstriatum and ventral hyperstriatum are discussed.