Question

What is the protective function from an evolutionary standpoint of the spinal flexion reflex?

Answer 1

Spinal flexion reflex protects an organism from damaging stimuli of the environment which may be hot objects, spines, thorns, etc. The key element in spinal flexion reflex is its speed of firing as instant pull back is required from the damaging effect if prologed/irreversible damage is to be prevented. The higher speed is possible due to the simplicity of the monosynaptic reflex arc. Another aspect that promotes its speed is the non interference of the brain as the spinal cord aids in the decision transmisson. From an evolutionary standpoint, spinal flexion reflex helps in the survival of species especially the younglings, as they are very curious of their environment. If the flexion reflex does'nt exist, the delicate tissue of the young can be severely wounded and may not entirely heal affecting their survival.