[Campbell Biology P.1165] Which statement accurately describes the function and mechanism of ... | Practice Question
Which statement accurately describes the function and mechanism of the lateral line system in fish, as described and illustrated?
A: It detects high-frequency sounds by using otoliths embedded in a cupula within the lateral line canal.
B: Water enters pores, bends a cupula, and stimulates hair cells to generate action potentials, allowing the fish to sense water currents and low-frequency vibrations.
C: It relies on a tympanic membrane to conduct vibrations from the water directly to the inner ear, similar to mammal hearing.
D: Its primary role is to help fish maintain equilibrium by detecting rotational acceleration of the head in three spatial planes.
Explanation
The text and Figure 50.14 explain that water enters the lateral line system through pores, bending the cupula and stimulating hair cells, which generates action potentials. This mechanism allows fish to perceive water currents, movement, and low-frequency vibrations.