Final answer:
The parvocellular pathway involves axons of retinal ganglion cells that carry visual information on color and fine detail to the brain. This pathway is part of the optic nerve and works alongside the magnocellular pathway to process visual signals for higher brain functions.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question pertains to the parvocellular pathway, which is one of the pathways through which visual information is transmitted from the retina to the brain. The parvocellular pathway consists of the axons of retinal ganglion cells that are particularly involved in conveying information about color and fine detail. This pathway contrasts with the magnocellular pathway, which transmits information about form, movement, depth, and differences in brightness. Both of these pathways are part of a larger system that involves the optic nerve, optic chiasma, and higher brain processing pertinent to vision.
Visual information can either project directly into the brain or cross to the opposite side, which is critical for coordinating information from both eyes. It's also worth noting that the myelinated axons of these ganglion cells are what make up the optic nerves.
While the question doesn't specify the exact percentage of nerve fibers that constitute the parvocellular pathway, it is recognized as a significant component of the optic nerve alongside the magnocellular pathway. Together, these create the complex web of visual processing required for detailed visual perception.