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lateral line

A Dictionary of Zoology | 1999 | 382 words | Copyright

lateral line A system of receptors, often embedded in special grooves in the skin of an animal, that is capable of detecting vibrations (and therefore movements) in the water surrounding the animal. In most fish, the lateral line runs along the sides of the body, but usually it forms a number of branches on the head. It is found in all lower aquatic vertebrates and some Amphibia.

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MICHAEL ALLABY. "lateral line." A Dictionary of Zoology. 1999. Encyclopedia.com. 30 May. 2012 <http://www.encyclopedia.com>.

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