Mechanisms and tradeoffs of peripheral and central control of dynamic skin patterning in cephalopods (Complex Dynamics and Systems Program)
Abstract
The objective of this research is to investigate the open question of what control mechanisms (central, sensory peripheral or combination) coordinate complex skin patterning in cephalopods for Rapid Adpative Coloration. In particular, the PIs will examine the "passing cloud" pattern, in which dark bands of expanded chromatophores create moving features across the body surface. To approach the objective, the PI will (1) use high-speed video to quantify kinetics of the passing cloud patterns under native and pharmacologically modified conditions; (2) model those kinetics to separate the roles of brain versus peripheral innervation or musculature; (3) determine the gross and fine anatomy of the muscles and nerves that may contribute to peripheral coordination of the passing cloud; and (4) conduct electrophysiology of the skin to distinguish central versus local control, and to find whether sensory feedback within the skin affects the speed or contrast of this visual communication signal. These experiments are meant to provide insight into how complex systems are controlled. If cephalopods prove to trade off coloration control between spontaneous pattern formation in the periphery and central modulation of the resulting passing clouds, they likely have done so by evolving an energy- and information-efficient neural code. Analysis of such a biological accomplishment could yield deployable engineering analogues.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Mar 04, 2019
- Source ID
- W911NF1610542
Entities
People
- Roger T. Hanlon
Organizations
- Army Contracting Command
- Marine Biological Laboratory
- United States Army