[Functional characteristics of the electroreceptors of the Turkestan catfish]

Experiments with recording of single fibre impulse activity from lateral-line nerve in Turkestan catfish (Glyptosternum reticulatum) show that the fish has a high-sensitive electroreceptor apparatus (threshold value in a uniform electric field was 1 muV/cm). The effective stimulus for the electroreceptors is the voltage drop across the fish skin. Impulse reactions to magnetic stimulation as well as thermal and mechanical sensitivity of the electroreceptors were observed. Biological significance of electroreceptors in Turkestan catfish is discussed.