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Number selective sensorimotor neurons in the crow translate perceived numerosity into number of actions

Author

Listed:
  • Maximilian E. Kirschhock

    (University of Tübingen)

  • Andreas Nieder

    (University of Tübingen)

Abstract

Translating a perceived number into a matching number of self-generated actions is a hallmark of numerical reasoning in humans and animals alike. To explore this sensorimotor transformation, we trained crows to judge numerical values in displays and to flexibly plan and perform a matching number of pecks. We report number selective sensorimotor neurons in the crow telencephalon that signaled the impending number of self-generated actions. Neuronal population activity during the sensorimotor transformation period predicted whether the crows mistakenly planned fewer or more pecks than instructed. During sensorimotor transformation, both a static neuronal code characterized by persistently number-selective neurons and a dynamic code originating from neurons carrying rapidly changing numerical information emerged. The findings indicate there are distinct functions of abstract neuronal codes supporting the sensorimotor number system.

Suggested Citation

  • Maximilian E. Kirschhock & Andreas Nieder, 2022. "Number selective sensorimotor neurons in the crow translate perceived numerosity into number of actions," Nature Communications, Nature, vol. 13(1), pages 1-14, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:nat:natcom:v:13:y:2022:i:1:d:10.1038_s41467-022-34457-5
    DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-34457-5
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Lena Veit & Andreas Nieder, 2013. "Abstract rule neurons in the endbrain support intelligent behaviour in corvid songbirds," Nature Communications, Nature, vol. 4(1), pages 1-11, December.
    2. Helen M. Ditz & Andreas Nieder, 2020. "Format-dependent and format-independent representation of sequential and simultaneous numerosity in the crow endbrain," Nature Communications, Nature, vol. 11(1), pages 1-10, December.
    3. Ben M. Harvey & Serge O. Dumoulin, 2017. "A network of topographic numerosity maps in human association cortex," Nature Human Behaviour, Nature, vol. 1(2), pages 1-9, February.
    4. Hiromasa Sawamura & Keisetsu Shima & Jun Tanji, 2002. "Numerical representation for action in the parietal cortex of the monkey," Nature, Nature, vol. 415(6874), pages 918-922, February.
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