Preservation of cross-modal transfer of a rate discrimination in the bushbaby (Galogo senegalensis) with lesions of posterior neocortex.

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Abstract
The effect of lesions of posterior neocortex was assessed, using a test method that permits the demonstration of cross-modal transfer in intact bushbabies. Bushbabies (8) were trained to discriminate light flashes of 18/s and 3/s in a go-no-go shock-avoidance task. On completion of training, 4 bushbabies received lesions of posterior neocortex by aspiration. After 6 wk both lesion and intact animals were returned to training in the visual discrimination. On the day following criterion performance on the visual test, auditory clicks of the same rate and contingencies were substituted and maintained to criterion. All 8 bushbabies demonstrated rapid transfer and the lesion animals were not retarded as compared with intact subjects. The cross-modal transfer of a specific rate discrimination was preserved in the absence of posterior intersensory neocortex. The results are discussed in terms of a hypothetical subcortical system capable of the amodal coding of simple stimulus dimensions.

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