Distribution of Motoneurons Innervating Tail Muscles in the Pigeon.

Abstract

ABSTRACT. The distribution of motoneurons innervating the tail muscles, M. levator caudae, M. depressor caudae, M. pubocaudalis externus, M. pubocaudalis internus, M. lateralis caudae and M. flexor cruris, in the adult pigeon was examined by retrograde transport of horseradish peroxides. Labeled motoneurons innervating tail muscles were distributed in the longitudinal column of the spinal cord below the sacral spinal segment 5. The average diameter of cell bodies ranged from 23.7 to 62.5 µm. Each motoneuron pool was localized in a characteristic position in the ventral horn. -KEY WORDS: motoneuron, pigeon, tail.