Bulbar Animal

an animal from which the entire brain above the medulla oblongata has been removed for experimental purposes. Observations on the reactions of a bulbar animal are useful in determining the functions of the medulla oblongata. Unlike the comparatively primitive reflexes realized solely through the spinal cord, the reflex acts of a bulbar animal are complex reactions of considerable biological significance. They include the vascular, respiratory, alimentary (for example, sucking and swallowing), and protective (sneezing and blinking) unconditioned reflexes. Since these reactions are the result of the interaction of individual reflexes, they help the animal to orient itself in the environment and to perform very simple acts related to feeding, respiration, defense, and so on.