Development of directional responses to sounds in the rat (Rattus norvegicus).

摘要: The first of two experiments was carried out to examine the tendency rat infants (13-20 days age) approach auditory stimulation. Tests were conducted in a circular maze with central start area and eight response areas at periphery. Stimuli played back over loudspeaker placed behind one areas. Signals included species calls high low intensities. A control condition blank tapes also used. subjects showed clear low-intensity playback "social" vocalization but did not other stimuli. aim second experiment investigate importance binaural cues for localization. Rat tested ear blocked, both ears or neither blocked. effect plug(s) attenuate sound approximately 10 dB. results indicated that only binaurally blocked normal approached source above chance levels. failure monaural group probably resulted from disruption cues. ability localize sounds process is discussed relation onset hearing terms physiological are present early ontogeny.