The eyes in normally respiring carp are induced by elements of the respiratory pumping system to make small displacements in phase with the respiratory cycle. The ocular movements were studied by film analysis during the normal respiratory cycle and the cough. In the course of the movement, the optic axis remains nearly parallel to its starting position. This results in a smaller retinal image shift than would be produced by angular movements.

Electromyography of the extraocular muscles showed that the external rectus and superior oblique muscles contribute to image stabilization during strong respiration, and the external rectus and the superior oblique muscles contribute during the cough.

© 1982 by Company of Biologists
1982
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