| Popis: |
This chapter reviews progress in understanding the motor patterning and control of the avian cervical column, and its underlying anatomical and neuronal basis. The avian cervical column is a highly complex system which positions the head during all behavioural patterns. In many species over 20 highly mobile cervical vertebrae are found, and up to 200 muscles run along either side of the cervical column. Numerous modal action patterns occur, each serving one of many different functions which are primarily performed by the head, and these patterns appear very flexible when external conditions change (cf. Chap. 8). A versatile system is required in order to generate numerous specific modal action patterns and to achieve flexibility in each one of them. This is accomplished by a complex mechanical construction of the cervical column, and a flexible neuro-motor patterning. |
