Final answer:
The hypothalamus is the neural structure beneath the thalamus, managing activities such as appetite, body temperature, and emotional responses, and influencing the endocrine system via the pituitary gland.
Step-by-step explanation:
The neural structure lying below the thalamus that directs several maintenance activities, governs the endocrine system, and is linked to emotion and reward is known as the hypothalamus. This structure is responsible for key functions like food and water intake, energy expenditure, and maintaining body temperature. Additionally, it regulates circadian rhythms and is a part of the limbic system, influencing memory and emotion. The hypothalamus sends signals to the pituitary gland, thus controlling the autonomic nervous system and the hormonal outputs affecting various physiological processes.