Lateral line
Stretching from head to tail down the flanks of sharks, the lateral-line system
consists of fluid-filled sensory canals with tiny, hair-like receptors. These
are similar to the ampullae of Lorenzini but are sensitive to
vibrations. Acting like a body-length ear, the system helps sharks and other
fish sense objects in the ocean. To them, the lateral line, which has been
dubbed "distant touch," is like having a long arm with which to touch a rock or
another fish.
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