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A discrete theory of synchronization of lateral optic-nerve impulses in the horseshoe crab

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Abstract

A discrete theory of synchronization of optic-nerve responses during uniform, steady illumination of the compound eye ofLimulus is described here. The theory is a natural extension of the classical steady-state theory of Hartline and Ratliff (1957). In order to explain the asynchronous response to weak illumination, we find it necessary to take account of observed random fluctuations in the responses of ommatidia illuminated by themselves. Without this noisy component, the computed responses synchronize at very low excitation levels. Once synchronized, the response develops a non-linear dependence on excitation. This non-linearity is a consequence solely of synchronization and is distinct from observed excitation dependences of lateral inhibition between pairs of ommatidia (Barlow and Lange, 1974). Synchronization at the higher excitation levels is also found to reduce or destroy Mach bands which are present in responses to weaker excitations.

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  1. Biophysics Interdepartmental Group, Department of Physics, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada

    J. A. Maxwell & G. H. Renninger

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  1. J. A. Maxwell
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  2. G. H. Renninger
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Maxwell, J.A., Renninger, G.H. A discrete theory of synchronization of lateral optic-nerve impulses in the horseshoe crab. Biol. Cybern. 46, 41–51 (1982). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00335350

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