Understanding of the mechanisms by which central pattern generating networks are formed during development requires the study of model systems in which both the motor responses and the behavioral patterns can be studied simultaneously. One important invertebrate model system, which has been studied extensively, is the stomatogastric ganglion of the adult lobster; this structure controls stomach movements. In this award, Dr. Joseph Ayers will study the development feeding behavior and how it is coordinated with the development of the motor patterns of the muscles controlled by the stomatogastric ganglion nerve cells. The basic hypothesis is that early larval motor patterns are simple and that the more complex patterns and adaptive reflexes characteristc of adult specimens are elaborated in these larval stages as the motor apparatus takes form. The video motion analysis system and correlated electromyographic recordings will be used to determine the overall temporal organization of feeding behavior in the larvae and how it changes from stage to stage, as well as how the motor patterns are affected by the type of food. This research will contribute fundamental knowledge about the development and generation of motor patterns that control important functions such as feeding behavior.
