Neuronal feedback between brain and inner ear for growth of otoliths in fish.

R H Anken, E Edelmann, H Rahmann

Index: Adv. Space Res. 30(4) , 829-33, (2002)

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Abstract

Previous investigations revealed that fish inner ear otolith growth (concerning otolith size and calcium-incorporation) depends on the amplitude and the direction of gravity, suggesting the existence of a (negative) feedback mechanism. In search for the regulating unit, the vestibular nerve was unilaterally transected in neonate swordtail fish (Xiphophorus helleri) which were subsequently incubated in the calcium-tracer alizarin-complexone. Calcium incorporation ceased on the transected head sides, indicating that calcium uptake is neurally regulated.c2002 COSPAR. Published by Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.