Allocortex vs. Neocortex — What's the Difference?

Directly associated with the limbic system.

The largest part of the human cerebral cortex that manages higher cognitive processes.

Contains fewer layers of neurons than other cortical areas.

Contains six distinct layers of neurons.

Involved in olfactory processing.

Crucial for sensory perception, conscious thought, and language.

Part of the brain's cerebral cortex, involved in primitive functions.

Involved in spatial reasoning and conscious thought.

Helps regulate autonomic and endocrine functions.

Handles motor commands and detailed processing.

The allocortex or heterogenetic cortex, and neocortex are the two types of cerebral cortex in the brain. The allocortex is the much smaller area of cortex taking up just 10 %, the neocortex takes up the remaining 90 %.

The neocortex, also called the neopallium, isocortex, or the six-layered cortex, is a set of layers of the mammalian cerebral cortex involved in higher-order brain functions such as sensory perception, cognition, generation of motor commands, spatial reasoning and language. The neocortex is further subdivided into the true isocortex and the proisocortex.In the human brain, the neocortex is the largest part of the cerebral cortex, which is the outer layer of the cerebrum, with the allocortex making up the rest.

(anatomy) The heterogenetic cortex; part of the cerebral cortex characterized by fewer cell layers than the neocortex (i.e. fewer than six)

The dorsal region of the cerebral cortex, especially large in primates, thought to have evolved more recently than other parts of the brain. Also called neopallium.

(neuroanatomy) The top layer of the cerebral hemispheres in the brain of mammals; part of the cerebral cortex.

The cortical part of the neencephalon; the most recently evolved part of the cerebral cortex of the brain of higher animals, and the site of most of the higher brain functions; called also neopallium.

The cortical part of the neencephalon

While most mammals have a neocortex, its size and complexity are particularly developed in humans.

The neocortex processes complex visual information, enabling detailed perception and recognition.

The hippocampus, part of the allocortex, is crucial for the formation and retrieval of long-term memories.

The allocortex's fewer layers facilitate rapid and direct processing of emotions and instinctive behaviors.

Damage to the allocortex can result in impaired memory, diminished emotional control, and difficulties in spatial orientation.

Yes, the neocortex is involved in abstract thinking and creativity, particularly through its frontal lobes.

The allocortex primarily consists of the hippocampus and olfactory cortex.

The neocortex allows for advanced learning, complex social interactions, and adaptability to diverse environments.

Yes, the neocortex is crucial for planning and executing precise motor functions and coordination.

Generally, no; the allocortex does not handle complex cognitive tasks that are typical of the neocortex, like advanced problem-solving.

Aging can lead to thinning of the neocortex, which may affect cognitive functions such as memory and attention.

The neocortex is essential for language processing, both in understanding and producing speech.

The allocortex connects with several brain regions, including those involved in the limbic system, influencing both physiological and psychological responses.

The allocortex processes basic emotional responses and is tightly linked to the limbic system, regulating feelings like fear and pleasure.

Rapid neocortical development in early childhood is critical for cognitive skills, sensory processing, and motor abilities.