Neuronal Control of Swimming Behavior: Comparison of Vertebrate and Invertebrate Model Systems

Authors

Olivia Mullins, University of Virginia - Main Campus
John Hackett, University of Virginia - Main Campus
James T. Buchanan, Marquette UniversityFollow
W. Otto Friesen, University of Virginia - Main Campus

Document Type

Article

Language

eng

Format of Original

26 p.

Publication Date

2-2011

Publisher

Elsevier

Source Publication

Progress in Neurobiology

Source ISSN

0301-0082

Abstract

Swimming movements in the leech and lamprey are highly analogous, and lack homology. Thus, similarities in mechanisms must arise from convergent evolution rather than from common ancestry. Despite over 40 years of parallel investigations into this annelid and primitive vertebrate, a close comparison of the approaches and results of this research is lacking. The present review evaluates the neural mechanisms underlying swimming in these two animals and describes the many similarities that provide intriguing examples of convergent evolution. Specifically, we discuss swim initiation, maintenance and termination, isolated nervous system preparations, neural-circuitry, central oscillators, intersegmental coupling, phase lags, cycle periods and sensory feedback. Comparative studies between species highlight mechanisms that optimize behavior and allow us a broader understanding of nervous system function.

Comments

Accepted version. Progress in Neurobiology, Volume 93, No. 2 (February 2011), DOI. © 2010 Elsevier. Used with permission.

Recommended Citation

Mullins, Olivia; Hackett, John; Buchanan, James T.; and Friesen, W. Otto, "Neuronal Control of Swimming Behavior: Comparison of Vertebrate and Invertebrate Model Systems" (2011). Biological Sciences Faculty Research and Publications. 70.
https://epublications.marquette.edu/bio_fac/70