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Which brain regions help coordinate aggressive attacks in vertebrates?

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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 vertebrates, the coordination of aggressive attacks is managed by a hierarchical system of neural structures, primarily located within the limbic system and the forebrain.1

Research indicates that the hypothalamus and the nearby pre-optic region are central to generating well-coordinated attacks against members of the same species. While electrical stimulation of the midbrain and hindbrain can elicit stereotyped or undirected aggressive behavior, stimulation of the hypothalamus and pre-optic area specifically triggers organized, coordinated attacks.1

The activity of these regions is modulated by higher centers in the brain that either inhibit or promote aggressive tendencies:

The Septum: Located above the hypothalamus, this structure has an inhibitory effect on aggression.1
The Amygdala: Found deep in the temporal lobes, this region generally has an excitatory effect on aggression.1

These structures interact with various biochemicals, including serotonin and norepinephrine, to modulate an animal's overall tendency to fight.1