Visual cliff behavior of mice as a function of genetic differences in eye characteristics

Abstract

The effects of type of breeding on visual cliff avoidance is evaluated using three groups of mice with different genetically determined eye characteristic s-pigmented (P), non-pigmented (NP) and rod-defiCient (RO)-tested on 2 occasions. The results show significant group differences on latency and descents. P and NP groups show high degree of cliff avoidance and NP significantly less descents than P. Strain differences were evident on latency and total descents for RO and on bolus count for NP. Latency decreased significantly from first to second test. Inter-and intraspecies differences are emphasized and genetic analysis of determinants of cliff avoidance suggested.