The lateral line system at metamorphosis in <i>Xenopus laevis</i> (Daudin)

Abstract

ABSTRACT Marked changes in the anatomy of the lateral line system occur during the metamorphosis of Xenopus. The distribution of rows differs in larva and adult and the orientation and number of organs are modified at metamorphosis. Larval plaques are functional, as shown by recording from their nerves. Two classes of cells with polarized cilia are present in the tadpole well before the orientation of individual organ plaques is rearranged at metamorphosis. The topography of the skin surface around individual plaques changes at metamorphosis. This change may reduce the directional sensitivity of organs. Myelinated inhibitory axons in the lateralis nerve are found only when the tadpole matures. This change takes place at a time when the adult method of locomotion is developed.