Due to the fact that Africa houses over 20% of the world's biodiversity in animal species, the continent is in a strong position to be one of the world leaders in contributing to knowledge of comparative and evolutionary neuroanatomy. This symposium highlights the work of some of the African researchers working on indigenous African species that are bringing to light new findings that are adding interesting data to global knowledge. Knowledge of comparative and evolutionary neuroscience is of importance, as reaching a scientific understanding of the animals that inhabit the continent provides information that is vital for resource management in the various countries. Management strategies regarding African species, for consumption, farming, eco-tourism, or for the long-term maintenance of biodiversity, can be augmented through neuroscientific knowledge – replacing folklore with accurate scientific knowledge. We hope to excite other African researchers to undertake similar studies on animals found literally in their own backyard.
Neuroanatomical and neurobiological studies on the circadian system in camel ( Camelus dromedarius ) Khalid EL ALLALI, Département d'Anatomie Comparée, Filière de Formation en Médecine Vétérinaire, Institut Agronomique et Vétérinaire Hassan II, Rabat, Morocco.
Giraffe ( Giraffa camelopardalis ) neuroanatomy: does height make a difference?
N. Ludo BADLANGANA, School of Medicine , University of Botswana , Gaborone , Botswana
Neurobiology and neurotoxicology in a desert rodent: Meriones Shawi
Prof Halima GAMRANI, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science Semlalia, Cadi Ayyad University, Morocco
Comparative adult neurogenesis in African rodents
Amadi O. IHUNWO, School of Anatomical Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg , South Africa .
Anatomical analysis of the African elephant ( Loxodonta africana ) cerebellum
Busisiwe C. MASEKO, School of Anatomical Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg , South Africa
Anatomy and physiology of sleep in the rock hyrax ( Procavia capensis )
Nadine GRAVETT, School of Anatomical Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg , South Africa .