Escape reflex

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Escape reflex, a kind of escape response, is a simple reflectory reaction in response to stimuli indicative of danger, that initiates an escape motion of an animal.

Escape reflexes control the seemingly chaotic motion of a cockroach running from under the foot when one tries to squash it.

In higher animals examples of escape reflex include the withdrawal reflex, e.g., the withdrawal of a hand in response to a pain stimulus. Sensory receptors in the stimulated body part send signals to the spinal cord along a sensory neuron. Within the spine a reflex arc switches the signals straight back to the muscles of the arm (effectors) via an intermediate neuron (interneuron) and then a motor neuron; the muscle contracts. There often is an opposite response of the opposite limb. The brain is only aware of the response after it has taken place.

Escape reflex arcs have a high survival value, enabling organisms to take rapid action to avoid potential danger.

Various animals may have specialized escape reflex circuits.

Examples of escape reflexes

  • Withdrawal reflexes
    • Ducking (flexing the neck to protect the head)
    • Jumping at loud sounds
    • Withdrawal of a body part when it touches something, e.g., excessively hot or cold.
  • Other
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