The crustacean nervous system

Crustacean preparations have been instrumental for over 50 years in exploring the principles that enable nerve cells and neural circuitry to perform diverse functions. The success of using crayfish and lobster nervous systems lies in their experimental systems, which align perfectly with theoretical and measurement requirements. In contrast, the more diversified vertebrate and mammalian nervous systems present significant experimental challenges. Crustacean nervous systems, composed of uniquely structured and physiologically distinct individual neurons, allow for repeated use across various preparations. Additionally, a limited range of consistent behaviors facilitates the correlation of neuron activity with specific behavioral components. Researchers leverage these advantages to concentrate on well-defined neurons and mechanisms, achieving convincing measurements efficiently. This book features contributions from distinguished neurobiologists, the leading experts in the field, who present research utilizing crustacean experimental systems. Their work provides comprehensive insights into the crustacean nervous system, which, while evolutionarily divergent, exhibits functional similarities to vertebrate neuronal circuitry, offering valuable interpretations for broader neurobiological understanding.