Which structure is known for having a long extension or tail in the basal ganglia?

The caudate nucleus is recognized for having a long extension, often referred to as a tail. This structure is one of the main components of the basal ganglia, a group of nuclei that play crucial roles in motor control and various cognitive processes. The caudate has a distinct "head" and a "tail," which allows it to curve around the lateral ventricles of the brain. Its elongated shape contributes to various connections with other brain regions, facilitating its involvement in movement regulation, decision-making, and learning.

Understanding the anatomy of the caudate nucleus, including its tail, can provide insights into its function. The tail extends into the temporal lobe and is involved in the integration of emotional and cognitive information, linking motor control with higher cognitive functions. This specialization is not present in the other structures listed, which either lack this elongated morphology or serve different roles in the basal ganglia circuitry.