Comparative Neuroanatomy of Birds of Prey Using CT-Based Brain Reconstruction
Faculty Mentor Name
Chris Torres
Research or Creativity Area
Natural Sciences
Abstract
Purpose:
To compare the external brain anatomy of birds of prey from different evolutionary lineages to explore correlations between external brain structures and aspects of ecology and behavior.
Methods:
We obtained CT scans of the Black Sparrowhawk, Spotted Owl, and Peregrine Falcon from Morphosource.org and imported them into the segmentation software Dragonfly. We reconstructed digital models of the external brainshape (i.e., endocasts) from the endocranial cavity. We used these models to make qualitative comparisons of brain shape across our sample with published literature. In the future, observed differences will be compared with differences in ecology.
Results:
All three species sampled here have well developed optic lobes, consistent with strong reliance on vision. Bubos Africanus and Falco peregrinus are adapted to daytime tracking of prey through high visual acuity and Accipiter Melanoleucus adapted for low-light hunting. Cerebellar development is variable across our sample, likely related to differences in flight behavior:falcons are adapted to diving at extreme speeds, hawks display high degree of maneuverability, and owls are adapted to slower, silent flight in pursuit of prey.
Conclusion:
Our study highlights key differences in external neuroanatomy across species that have converged on raptorial lifestyles. These preliminary qualitative comparisons show that CT-based endocasts are an effective method for investigating links between brain anatomy and behavior. To further develop this approach, including in the context of extinct species, we will expand our taxonomic sample, refine endocast reconstruction, and incorporate quantitative analyses of variation in brain shape. We will also expand our analysis of other structures including the wulst, pituitary fossa, and the cerebral hemispheres.
Comparative Neuroanatomy of Birds of Prey Using CT-Based Brain Reconstruction
Purpose:
To compare the external brain anatomy of birds of prey from different evolutionary lineages to explore correlations between external brain structures and aspects of ecology and behavior.
Methods:
We obtained CT scans of the Black Sparrowhawk, Spotted Owl, and Peregrine Falcon from Morphosource.org and imported them into the segmentation software Dragonfly. We reconstructed digital models of the external brainshape (i.e., endocasts) from the endocranial cavity. We used these models to make qualitative comparisons of brain shape across our sample with published literature. In the future, observed differences will be compared with differences in ecology.
Results:
All three species sampled here have well developed optic lobes, consistent with strong reliance on vision. Bubos Africanus and Falco peregrinus are adapted to daytime tracking of prey through high visual acuity and Accipiter Melanoleucus adapted for low-light hunting. Cerebellar development is variable across our sample, likely related to differences in flight behavior:falcons are adapted to diving at extreme speeds, hawks display high degree of maneuverability, and owls are adapted to slower, silent flight in pursuit of prey.
Conclusion:
Our study highlights key differences in external neuroanatomy across species that have converged on raptorial lifestyles. These preliminary qualitative comparisons show that CT-based endocasts are an effective method for investigating links between brain anatomy and behavior. To further develop this approach, including in the context of extinct species, we will expand our taxonomic sample, refine endocast reconstruction, and incorporate quantitative analyses of variation in brain shape. We will also expand our analysis of other structures including the wulst, pituitary fossa, and the cerebral hemispheres.
Comments
First and second authors contributed equally to this project.