Electroreception - International Wildlife Museum

Shark
Senses
electroreception
Ampullae of Lorenzini
Sharks have hundreds of thousands of
electroreceptor organs, called ampullae of
Lorenzini. Electroreception is the biological
ability to sense the weak bioelectric fields
generated by other animals. Each ampulla is
a jelly-filled canal in the skin. The ampullae
are clustered in groups inside the body and
connected to different parts of the skin.
Eye
Ampullae of Lorenzini
Sharks have the greatest electrical sensitivity of any animal. Some sharks find
prey hidden in sand by detecting its bio-electric field. Ocean currents moving in
the magnetic field of the earth also generate electric fields that sharks can use for
orientation and possibly navigation.
Lateral Line
The lateral line is a sense organ used to detect movement and vibration. Lateral lines are
visible as faint lines running lengthwise down each side from the vicinity of the gill covers
to the base of the tail.
Lateral Line