Final answer:
The midbrain, when grouped with the pons and medulla oblongata, is referred to as the brain stem, which plays a key role in coordinating sensory inputs and autonomic bodily functions.
Step-by-step explanation:
In mammals, the midbrain can be grouped together with the pons and medulla oblongata, and is called the brain stem. The brain stem is a critical structure that emerges from the ventral surface of the forebrain as a tapering cone that connects the brain to the spinal cord. This structure is responsible for coordinating several vital functions including sensory processing and autonomic bodily functions. The midbrain specifically deals with sensory representations of visual, auditory, and somatosensory inputs. The pons acts as a primary connection to the cerebellum and together with the medulla regulates crucial functions such as cardiovascular and respiratory systems.