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Functional consequences of structural differences in stingray sensory systems. Part II: electrosensory system
Laura K Jordan1, Stephen M Kajiura, Malcolm S Gordon
1Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of California at Los Angeles, 621 Charles E. Young Drive South, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA. ljordan@ucla.edu
The Journal of Experimental Biology
|September 15, 2009
Summary
Stingrays use their electrosensory system to find prey. This study found that while pore density varies, all tested stingray species effectively detect weak electric fields for feeding.
Area of Science:
- Marine Biology
- Sensory Ecology
- Ichthyology
Background:
- Elasmobranchs possess electrosensory systems for detecting weak electric fields.
- Species exhibit variations in electrosensory pore morphology, but functional implications are unclear.
- Stingrays often feed on buried prey, relying on non-visual electrosensory cues.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate functional differences in electrosensory capabilities among stingray species.
- To test predictions linking electrosensory pore structure to detection performance.
- To compare the electrosensory morphology and behavior of three stingray species.
Main Methods:
- Behavioral experiments using dipole electric signals (5.3-9.6 microA) were conducted.
- Detection capabilities were assessed by observing behavioral responses.
- Electrosensory pore number, density, and distribution were analyzed across species.
Main Results:
- Species with higher ventral pore numbers and densities were hypothesized to show enhanced electrosensory abilities.
- Electric field intensities at orientation were comparable across species.
- Minimum voltage gradients for feeding responses were below 1 nVcm(-1) for all species.
Conclusions:
- Electrosensory pore morphology influences detection capabilities in stingrays.
- Despite structural variations, all studied stingray species demonstrate high electrosensory sensitivity.
- The electrosensory system is crucial for stingray prey detection, particularly for buried prey.
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