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The physiology of the locust ear

I. Frequency sensitivity of single cells in the isolated ear

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Summary

The sensory responses of single receptor cells in the isolated ear of the locustSchistocerca gregaria were measured under controlled acoustical conditions. The four anatomical groups (Fig. 1) differ as to frequency sensitivity (Fig. 11). Although the isolated ear differs much from the intact ear, it may be concluded that fairly accurate information about sound frequency reaches the CNS. The responses of most units showed a maximum sensitivity at two (Figs. 4 and 9) or three (Fig. 8) different frequencies. But several units had only one maximum (Figs. 6 and 7, right).

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Editor's note: In agreement with the author the publication was delayed until parts II and III were ready.

I am grateful to Professors F. Huber and U. V. Lassen for discussions and advice, to Mr. S. Olesen-Larsen and Mr. O. Bengtson for advice on the statistical and technical problems, and to Miss W. Taagerup for able technical assistance. The work was supported by the Anti-Locust Research Centre, London, the Carlsberg Foundation, and Statens almindelige Videnskabsfond.

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Michelsen, A. The physiology of the locust ear. Z. Vergl. Physiol. 71, 49–62 (1971). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01245154

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