What specific electrical fields do the Ampullae of Lorenzini detect in prey?
Answer
Fields generated by muscle contractions.
One of the most specialized and unique adaptations possessed by the white shark is the Ampullae of Lorenzini. These are specialized, jelly-filled pores or canals found predominantly around the snout and head region. Their function is highly sensitive electroreception; they are specifically designed to detect the minute electrical fields that are naturally generated by the muscle contractions of other living creatures. This capability provides the shark with a vital advantage, allowing it to pinpoint prey, even if that prey is buried under sand or injured and emitting only weak bioelectric signals, especially in situations where water visibility is poor.
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