Ganglion cell size and distribution in the retina of the two-toed sloth (Choloepus didactylus L.)
Andrade-da-Costa, B.L.; Pessoa, V.F.; Bousfield, J.D.; Clarke, R.J.
Brazilian Journal of Medical and Biological Research 22(2): 233-236
1989
ISSN/ISBN: 0100-879X PMID: 2790292 Document Number: 342869
The distribution of ganglion cell densities and sizes was studied in Nissl-stained flat-mount retinae of the two-toed sloth. The area centralis, a weak specialization with low ganglion cell density, is located in the temporal retina close to the center of the eye. The presence of a visual streak was noted. The distribution of different ganglion cell sizes was approximately equal throughout the retina. Although the retinal organization differs from that of the closely related three-toed sloth, the presumed function of retinal specializations in both species is to guide limb movements by permitting visualization of the branch along which the animal is climbing.