Knollenorgan
Knollenorgan
Knollenorgan (pronunciation: /knɒlɛnɔːrɡən/) is a specialized electroreceptive organ found in certain species of fish, particularly in the family Mormyridae.
Etymology
The term "Knollenorgan" is derived from the German words "Knolle" meaning tuber or knob, and "Organ" meaning organ. This refers to the organ's tuber-like structure.
Description
The Knollenorgan is a type of electroreceptor that allows fish to detect weak electric fields in their environment. This organ is composed of a cluster of electroreceptor cells, known as electrocytes, which are connected to the fish's nervous system. The Knollenorgan is particularly sensitive to changes in electric fields, allowing the fish to detect the presence and movement of other organisms, even in dark or murky water.
Function
The primary function of the Knollenorgan is electroreception. This allows the fish to perceive electrical stimuli, which can be used for navigation, prey detection, and communication with other fish. The Knollenorgan is particularly important for fish that live in environments with low visibility, as it provides a form of sensory perception that is not reliant on light.
Related Terms
- Electroreception: The biological ability to perceive natural electrical stimuli.
- Electrocyte: A type of cell that produces an electric charge.
- Mormyridae: A family of fish known for their use of electroreception.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Knollenorgan
- Wikipedia's article - Knollenorgan
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