W.J. Kuenzel¹ & S. Blähser²

Kuenzel, W.J. & Blähser, S. 1999. Functional neuroanatomical pathways and systems within the avian brain. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban: 769. Johannesburg: BirdLife South Africa.

The application of recent neuroanatomical techniques has helped define neural pathways, systems and possible functions of the avian brain. Dr. Puelles will illustrate how the avian forebrain is thought to be organised by examining developmental genes in the early avian embryo. The approach can assess whether the entire dorsal ventricular ridge of birds is equivalent to the mammalian cortex. Dr. Grossmann will show that a particular group of neurons within the diencephalon is present in both male and female chicks during embryonic development. After hatching, the neurons completely disappear in the female. The unique system may likewise be present in other avian species. Dr. Wild will describe one of the best characterised neural pathways in the avian brain, the neural regulation of pecking behaviour that results in the consumption of a food item. Dr. Kuenzel will propose a neural system that serves a more global purpose: to initiate and regulate the annual cycle of birds. Dr. Blähser will address the importance of phylogenetic studies. Utilising immunocytochemical techniques and an evolutionary approach, specific brain areas can be better understood, e.g. the limbic system. Rapid progress in brain research is expected in the future due to the constant availability of new molecular probes for avian species.