Response of the locust descending movement detector neuron to rapidly approaching and withdrawing visual stimuli

Abstract

Preliminary observations on five female desert locusts, Schistocerca gregaria (Forskal), reveal particularly vigorous response in the descending contralateral (DCMD) movement detector neurons to black radially expanding (approaching) visual stimuli. Greater responsivity to expanding, rather than contracting targets, as well as the absolute spatial sensitivity of the locust DCMD system suggest a role for simple lateral inhibitory contrast mechanisms in the function of this class of neuron. The biological significance of this particular neural system is also discussed.