Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 1, 2026
09:32
Evaluation of Auditory Brainstem Response in Chicken Hatchlings
Published on: April 1, 2022
3.5K
Hearing sensitivity evaluated by the auditory brainstem response in Miniopterus fuliginosus
Takafumi Furuyama1, Kazuma Hase2, Shizuko Hiryu2
1Organization for Research Initiatives and Development, Doshisha University, Kyotanabe, Kyoto, Japan.
The Journal of the Acoustical Society of America
|December 8, 2018
Summary
This study measured the hearing sensitivity of the frequency-modulating (FM) bat, Miniopterus fuliginosus. Results show peak auditory sensitivity between 44 and 56 kHz, aligning with echolocation needs.
Area of Science:
- Bioacoustics
- Auditory Neuroscience
- Mammalogy
Background:
- Frequency-modulating (FM) bats utilize complex vocalizations for echolocation.
- Understanding bat hearing sensitivity is crucial for interpreting their sensory world and behavior.
- Miniopterus fuliginosus is a common FM bat species whose auditory capabilities warrant detailed investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the hearing sensitivity curve (audiogram) of the FM bat species Miniopterus fuliginosus.
- To correlate the auditory sensitivity of M. fuliginosus with its echolocation pulse characteristics.
- To compare the audiogram shape of M. fuliginosus with those of other known FM bat species.
Main Methods:
- Auditory brainstem responses (ABRs) were recorded in the inferior colliculus of M. fuliginosus.
- Hearing thresholds were measured across a range of frequencies.
- Audiograms were generated to represent the average hearing sensitivity.
Main Results:
- The average audiogram for M. fuliginosus exhibited a U-shaped pattern.
- Hearing sensitivity improved with increasing frequency from 16 kHz to 40 kHz.
- Peak auditory sensitivity was observed between 44 and 56 kHz, coinciding with the terminal frequencies of echolocation pulses.
Conclusions:
- The hearing sensitivity of M. fuliginosus is adapted to its echolocation frequencies.
- The U-shaped audiogram is characteristic of many FM bat species, reflecting their sensory ecology.
- Further research can explore the relationship between vocalization behavior and auditory perception in bats.
Related Concept Videos
01:31Hearing
57.2K
When we hear a sound, our nervous system is detecting sound waves—pressure waves of mechanical energy traveling through a medium. The frequency of the wave is perceived as pitch, while the amplitude is perceived as loudness.
57.2K
01:19Brainstem
6.5K
The brainstem, located inferior to the brain and superior to the spinal cord, serves as a bridge between the cerebrum and the spinal cord. It plays a vital role in relaying information and controlling critical life functions. It comprises three primary regions: the midbrain, pons, and medulla oblongata.
The Midbrain
The midbrain is located beneath the diencephalon and connects the cerebrum with the lower parts of the brain. The cerebral peduncles are prominent midbrain structures that house the...
The Midbrain
The midbrain is located beneath the diencephalon and connects the cerebrum with the lower parts of the brain. The cerebral peduncles are prominent midbrain structures that house the...
6.5K
01:11The Auditory Ossicles
3.1K
The auditory ossicles of the middle ear transmit sounds from the air as vibrations to the fluid-filled cochlea. The auditory ossicles consist of two malleus (hammer) bones, two incus (anvil) bones, and two stapes (stirrups), one on each side. These bones develop during the fetal stage and are the ones to ossify first. They are fully mature at birth and do not grow afterward.
The aptly named stapes look very much like a stirrup. The three ossicles are unique to mammals, and each plays a role in...
The aptly named stapes look very much like a stirrup. The three ossicles are unique to mammals, and each plays a role in...
3.1K
01:15Auditory Pathway
7.3K
Auditory pathways constitute the complex neural circuits responsible for transmitting and interpreting auditory information from the peripheral auditory system to the brain. Sound waves are initially captured by the outer ear, funneled through the ear canal, and reach the tympanic membrane (eardrum). These vibrations are transmitted via the middle ear's ossicles to the inner ear's cochlea.
When viewed cross-sectionally, the cochlea reveals the scala vestibuli and scala tympani flanking...
When viewed cross-sectionally, the cochlea reveals the scala vestibuli and scala tympani flanking...
7.3K
01:17Auditory Perception
1.1K
The auditory system is essential for sound perception, utilizing various critical structures. When sound waves enter the outer ear, they travel through the ear canal and cause the eardrum to vibrate. These vibrations are then transmitted to the middle ear, where three tiny bones – the malleus, incus, and stapes – amplify the sound. This amplification is crucial, as it ensures that the sound vibrations are strong enough to be conveyed to the inner ear. These vibrations then reach the...
1.1K
01:21Brainstem: Control Centers of Medulla
4.3K
The medulla oblongata is a crucial part of the brainstem responsible for controlling various autonomic and involuntary functions. It contains several nuclei, including the olivary, cuneate, gracile, and solitary nuclei.
Olivary Nucleus
The olivary nucleus, or inferior olivary nucleus, is located within the ventrolateral part of the medulla oblongata. It is primarily involved in motor coordination and motor learning. The olivary nucleus receives input from the spinal cord, cerebellum, and motor...
Olivary Nucleus
The olivary nucleus, or inferior olivary nucleus, is located within the ventrolateral part of the medulla oblongata. It is primarily involved in motor coordination and motor learning. The olivary nucleus receives input from the spinal cord, cerebellum, and motor...
4.3K