The mechanics of the clupeid acoustico-lateralis system: frequency responses

Abstract

The mechanical responses of several structures in the auditory and lateral-line systems of the sprat Sprattus sprattus (L.) and the herring Clupea harengus L. to oscillatory pressure changes have been observed over a range of frequencies from 0·014 t0 2600 Hz. The pressures required to give constant responses of the bulla membrane, and the lateral recess membrane varied relatively little between 0·014 and 1000 Hz; above 1000 Hz the sensitivity fell quickly as frequency increased.