A possible structural correlate of learning performance on a colour discrimination task in the brain of the bumblebee.

ABSTRACT: Synaptic plasticity is considered to be a basis for learning and memory. However, the relationship between synaptic arrangements and individual differences in learning and memory is poorly understood. Here, we explored how the density of microglomeruli (synaptic complexes) within specific regions of the bumblebee (Bombus terrestris) brain relates to both visual learning and inter-individual differences in learning and memory performance on a visual discrimination task. Using whole-brain immunolabelling, we measured the density of microglomeruli in the collar region (visual association areas) of the mushroom bodies of the bumblebee brain. We found that bumblebees which made fewer errors during training in a visual discrimination task had higher microglomerular density. Similarly, bumblebees

SUBMITTER: Li L 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5647297 | biostudies-literature | 2017 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature