Stochastic resonance and synchronization in the crayfish caudal photoreceptor

Abstract

Stochastic resonance is the process by which noise added to a weak external stimulus can enhance encoding efficiency in the sensory periphery and thence in the central nervous system. Stochastic synchronization is the process by which noisy phase synchronization of two periodic (or aperiodic) signals can occur. Together with a brief review of both concepts, we illustrate their applications to the encoding of weak external hydrodynamic signals in the mechanosensory system of the crayfish.