Hair Cell Types and Distributions in the Otolithic and Auditory Organs of the Bullfrog

Based on surface morphology, 6 hair cell types have been identified on the sensory epithelia of the bullfrog otolithic and auditory organs. One of these types apparently is the morphogenetic precursor of vibrational and auditory hair cells. Another type, with a kinocilium several times as long as the longest stereocilia, apparently mediates gravistatic sensitivity. A third type, with a bulbed kinocilium no longer than the longest stereocilia, apparently mediates vibrational and auditory sensitivities. The other types may serve a variety of functions, depending on their location. One suggested function is that of an anchor for the gelatinous superstructure.