Ampullae of Lorenzini
Definition
Ampullae of Lorenzini are specialized electroreceptor organs found in cartilaginous fish like sharks and rays. They detect electric fields generated by the muscle contractions of prey and other organisms in the water.
5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test
- Ampullae of Lorenzini are located primarily on the head and snout regions of sharks and rays.
- They consist of jelly-filled canals that lead to sensory cells, which transmit electrical signals to the nervous system.
- These organs can detect minute electrical potentials as low as one-billionth of a volt.
- Besides locating prey, ampullae of Lorenzini help with navigation by detecting the Earth's magnetic field.
- Named after Stefano Lorenzini, who first described them in the 17th century.
Review Questions
- Where are the ampullae of Lorenzini primarily located on cartilaginous fish?
- What is the primary function of ampullae of Lorenzini?
- How do ampullae of Lorenzini assist sharks besides locating prey?
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Related terms
Electroreception: The ability to detect electric fields or currents, used by various aquatic animals for navigation and hunting.
Lateral Line System: A sensory system in fish and some amphibians that detects water movements through mechanoreceptors.
Cartilaginous Fish: Fish species, such as sharks and rays, that have skeletons made primarily of cartilage rather than bone.
