Abstract
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1.
We are studying the neural basis of consummatory feeding behavior in Aplysia using intact, freely moving animals.
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2.
Video records show that the timing of radula closure during the radula protraction-retraction cycle constitutes a major difference between ingestion (biting or swallowing) and rejection. During ingestion, the radula is closed as it retracts. During rejection, the radula is closed as it protracts.
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3.
We observed two patterns of activity in nerves which are likely to mediate these radula movements. Patterns I and II are associated with ingestion and rejection, respectively, and are distinguished by the timing of radula nerve activity with respect to the onset of buccal nerve 2 activity.
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4.
The association of ingestion with pattern I is maintained when the animal feeds on a polyethylene tube, the same food substrate used to elicit rejection responses. Under these conditions, pattern I is associated with either swallowing or no net tube movement.
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5.
Most transitions from swallowing to rejection were preceded by one or more occurrences of pattern I in which there was no net tube movement, suggesting that these transitions can be predicted.
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6.
Our data suggest that these two patterns can be used to distinguish ingestion from rejection.
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Abbreviations
- BN2:
-
buccal nerve 2
- RN:
-
radula nerve
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Morton, D.W., Chiel, H.J. In vivo buccal nerve activity that distinguishes ingestion from rejection can be used to predict behavioral transitions in Aplysia . J Comp Physiol A 172, 17–32 (1993). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00214712
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00214712