Central Lateral Line Pathways and Central Integration of Lateral Line Information

Abstract

The lateral line system allows fishes to detect weak water movements and pressure gradients. This chapter covers our present knowledge about the central processing of lateral line information in cartilaginous and teleost fish at all levels of the neuraxis, from medulla to telencephalon. Special attention is given to the responses of central lateral line units to simple and more natural, complex stimuli presented in still- and running water. In addition, the chapter provides some information about the central lateral line pathway of fishes.