Sheep Brain Dissection

Study Notes

Brain Structures in Sheep Dissection

Superior Colliculus
- Located in the midbrain, involved in visual processing.
- Plays a crucial role in orienting head and eye movements towards stimuli.
Pineal Gland
- A small, pinecone-shaped gland in the epithalamus.
- Produces melatonin, regulating sleep-wake cycles and seasonal biological rhythms.
Cerebrum
- Largest part of the brain, divided into hemispheres.
- Responsible for higher brain functions including sensory perception, thought, and voluntary movement.
Thalamus
- Acts as the brain's sensory relay station, processing and transmitting information.
- Located above the brainstem, it routes sensory and motor signals to the cerebral cortex.
Hypothalamus
- Small but crucial, located below the thalamus.
- Regulates autonomic functions, hormone release, and homeostasis (temperature, hunger, thirst).
Cerebral Peduncle
- Bundles of nerve fibers located in the midbrain, connecting the cerebrum and lower brain structures.
- Involved in motor control and coordination.
Pons
- A major structure in the brainstem, located above the medulla.
- Functions as a bridge between different parts of the nervous system and plays a role in regulating breathing and sleep.
Medulla Oblongata
- The lowest part of the brainstem, connecting the brain to the spinal cord.
- Controls vital autonomic functions like heart rate, blood pressure, and respiration.

Description

Test your knowledge on the anatomy of the sheep brain with this labeled diagram quiz. Identify various parts such as the Superior Colliculus, Pineal Gland, and more. Perfect for biology students or anyone interested in neuroanatomy.