Final answer:
The optic lobes in nonmammalian vertebrates are found in the midbrain, which is critical for processing visual information.
Step-by-step explanation:
In nonmammalian vertebrates, the optic lobes are an integral part of the visual system and are located in the midbrain. The midbrain, also known as the mesencephalon during embryonic development, plays a pivotal role in processing visual and auditory information and is connected to the eyes and the diencephalon. The midbrain development in vertebrates is significant in the early stages, and although it does not increase in size as much as the forebrain or hindbrain, it retains vital functions such as vision and hearing.