Echo-detecting characteristics of neurons in inferior colliculus of unanesthetized bats

Science. 1977 May 6;196(4290):675-8. doi: 10.1126/science.857318.

Abstract

Neurons in the inferior colliculus of echolocating bats responded well to two stimuli presented in close temporal sequence. Favorable recovery of responsiveness was seen with stimuli having durations, intensities, and interpulse intervals similar to the natural biosonar signals reaching the ears during the various phases of echolocation. Some units responded to a subthreshold simulated echo but only when preceded by a loud initial pulse. These units appear to be specialized for echo-detection.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Action Potentials
  • Anesthetics / pharmacology
  • Animals
  • Auditory Perception / drug effects
  • Auditory Perception / physiology*
  • Auditory Threshold
  • Chiroptera / physiology*
  • Echolocation*
  • Inferior Colliculi / drug effects
  • Inferior Colliculi / physiology*
  • Neurons / physiology
  • Orientation*
  • Wakefulness

Substances

  • Anesthetics