Orienting our view of the superior colliculus: specializations and general functions

The mammalian superior colliculus (SC) and its non-mammalian homolog, the optic tectum are implicated in sensorimotor transformations. Historically, emphasis on visuomotor functions of the SC has led to a popular view that it operates as an oculomotor structure rather than a more general orienting structure. In this review, we consider comparative work on the SC/optic tectum, with a particular focus on non-visual sensing and orienting, which reveals a broader perspective on SC functions and their role in species-specific behaviors. We highlight several recent studies that consider ethological context and natural behaviors to advance knowledge of the SC as a site of multi-sensory integration and motor initiation in diverse species.

Automated summary

The study explores comparative work on mammalian superior colliculus and non-mammalian optic tectum, highlighting the role of the SC in multisensory integration and motor initiation. Emphasis is placed on recent studies that consider ethological context and natural behaviors, advancing knowledge of the SC as a site of sensory processing and motor control in diverse species.