Question

What sensory information is encoded for by hair cells in the maculae of the saccule and utricle? What is the function of the otoliths (statoconia and gel material)? What are the functions of the vestibular nuclei? ...

Answer 1

Answer and Explanation:

The sensory information encoded for by the hair cells in the maculae of the saccule and utricule are:

• the direction and strength of mechanical stimuli (polarity information)
• Response to the head's rotational movement

Functions of the otoliths

The otoliths provide balance, movements and serve as directional indicators in vertebrates. They help higher vertebrates in sound detection.

Functions of the vestibular nuclei

• Maintenance of equilibrium and posture
• Modification of muscle tone
• Relays information to the cerebral cortex
• Directing the movements of the head and eye
• Maintaining the line of vision