____are used by sharks to detect electrical signals in water
A Ampullae of Lorenzini
B gills
C lateral lines
D fins
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is A. Ampullae of Lorenzini.
Sharks have specialized sensory organs known as the ampullae of Lorenzini, which allow them to detect electrical signals in the water. These organs are located primarily on the shark’s head, around the snout area. The ampullae are capable of sensing weak electrical fields produced by the movements of prey, such as the muscle contractions of fish and other marine animals. These signals are detected by jelly-filled canals connected to sensory cells, which allow the shark to “see” electrical activity even in murky waters where visibility is limited. This heightened sense of electroreception gives sharks a hunting advantage, allowing them to detect the heartbeat of prey and navigate in low-visibility conditions.
The electrical fields detected by the ampullae of Lorenzini are incredibly faint, in the range of microvolts, which means these organs are extremely sensitive. This sensitivity helps sharks in many ways, including locating prey hidden in sand or dark waters, even when their sight is not effective. The ability to sense electric fields also plays a role in shark navigation. The Earth’s magnetic field itself can create subtle electrical signals, and sharks may use their electroreception to help guide them during long migrations.
Other structures such as gills, lateral lines, and fins serve different purposes. Gills are used for respiration, the lateral line helps detect vibrations and movement in the water, and fins are crucial for propulsion and maneuverability. However, none of these structures are directly involved in detecting electrical signals like the ampullae of Lorenzini. Therefore, the ampullae are a unique adaptation that sets sharks apart as one of the most effective hunters in the ocean.