superior colliculus

Function

• relay station in the extrageniculate central visual pathway

Structure

• the paired, ovoid superior eminence of the tectum mesencephali (corpora quadrigemini).

Afferents

• superficial layers
  • retina
  • striate cortex
• deep layers have polymodal input

Efferents

• lower brainstem & spinal cord via tectobulbar tract & tectospinal tract
• pulvinar & other nuclei in the caudal thalamus

More general terms

• brain structure

Component of

• tectum mesencephali; corpora quadrigemina