Which visual cortex cell responds to the orientation and motion of a stimulus?

The complex cells in the visual cortex are known for their unique response characteristics, particularly in relation to the orientation and motion of visual stimuli. Unlike simple cells, which primarily respond to stationary stimuli and specific orientations of edges, complex cells are sensitive to moving stimuli regardless of their exact position in the visual field. This ability to respond to direction and motion allows them to play a crucial role in perceiving dynamic visual information.

Complex cells integrate input from multiple simple cells, enabling them to detect not only the orientation but also the motion of edges and patterns as they move across the visual field. This function is essential for tasks such as tracking moving objects and perceiving motion, contributing to our overall visual experience.

In contrast, the other cell types mentioned have different roles. Simple cells mainly respond to static edges and contrasts aligned in specific orientations, while end-stopped (or hypercomplex) cells are tuned to specific lengths and respond to the termination of lines or edges, rather than responding to motion. Therefore, complex cells are specifically designed to handle both orientation and motion, making them the correct response to the question posed.