How does a shark detect vibrations emitted by other animals?
Is the answer a lateral line?
yes
But sharks also detect their prey with sensory receptors that run along their sides. These receptors make up the “lateral line,” an organ similar in function to the ear that can feel pulses or vibrations in the water. A shark might sense the flailing of an animal in distress and swim closer to investigate.
Yes, the answer is the lateral line. The lateral line system is a unique sensory system found in fish and some other aquatic animals, including sharks. It consists of a series of fluid-filled canals running along the sides of the body. These canals are lined with hair cells that can detect changes in water pressure and movement.
When another animal moves or creates vibrations in the water, it causes pressure changes in the surrounding water. These pressure changes are detected by the hair cells in the shark's lateral line system. Each hair cell is connected to a nerve fiber, which transmits signals to the shark's brain.
By detecting these vibrations, the lateral line system helps the shark to navigate, locate prey, and avoid obstacles. It allows them to sense movements and disturbances in their environment, even in the dark or murky water where vision may be limited.
So, in summary, sharks detect vibrations emitted by other animals through their lateral line system, which helps them to sense changes in water pressure and movement.