How does the septum affect aggression in mammals?

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red deer stags (Cervus elaphus) — Aggressive behaviour A pair of red deer stags (*Cervus elaphus*) competing for possession of a female in the rutting season.

In mammals, the septum—a structure located within the limbic system of the forebrain—plays a critical role in modulating aggressive behavior by exerting an inhibitory effect on aggression.1

While other areas of the brain, such as the hypothalamus, are involved in the generation of coordinated aggressive attacks, the septum acts as a higher center that helps regulate and suppress these impulses. This inhibitory function contrasts with other limbic structures like the amygdala, which is associated with promoting aggressive responses.1