Mosaic Brain Evolution Drives Learning in Tropical Butterfly

Researchers have discovered that Heliconius butterflies, known for feeding on both nectar and pollen, show mosaic brain evolution with specialized neural expansions linked to enhanced learning and memory abilities. This expansion occurs in specific brain structures called mushroom bodies, which are key for long-term visual memory and spatial learning.

By analyzing these butterflies’ brain circuits, scientists found that certain cells, known as Kenyon cells, grew at different rates, helping the butterflies navigate complex feeding routes. As part of this behaviour, they demonstrate a remarkable ability to learn and remember spatial information about their food sources—skills previously connected to the expansion of a brain structure called the mushroom bodies, responsible for learning. These findings highlight how brain structure adaptations support cognitive innovations, offering new insights into neural evolution.

🆔@neurocognitionandlearning

Neuroscience & Psychology

Mosaic Brain Evolution Drives Learning in Tropical Butterfly

Researchers have discovered that Heliconius butterflies, known for feeding on both nectar and pollen, show mosaic brain evolution with specialized neural expansions linked to enhanced learning and memory abilities. This expansion occurs in specific brain structures called mushroom bodies, which are key for long-term visual memory and spatial learning.

By analyzing these butterflies’ brain circuits, scientists found that certain cells, known as Kenyon cells, grew at different rates, helping the butterflies navigate complex feeding routes. As part of this behaviour, they demonstrate a remarkable ability to learn and remember spatial information about their food sources—skills previously connected to the expansion of a brain structure called the mushroom bodies, responsible for learning. These findings highlight how brain structure adaptations support cognitive innovations, offering new insights into neural evolution.

🆔@neurocognitionandlearning

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346 viewsedited  May 26 at 20:37