Reflex inhibition of the slowly adapting stretch receptors in the intact abdomen of the crayfish.

The reflex inhibition of abdominal stretch receptors in crayfish was studied by controlled passive flexion of individual abdominal joints. The results are very similar to those obtained by electrical or mechanical stimulation of individual stretch receptors in immobilized abdomens. Reflex effects from posterior to anterior abdominal segments are somewhat stronger than in the opposite direction. Flexion of one abdominal joint excites the stretch receptors of that joint and inhibits the stretch receptors in neighbouring abdominal segments. Without reflex inhibition flexion of one abdominal joint excites the stretch receptors in several abdominal segments.