Question

The main function of semicircular canals in the vertebrates is to

• A. Perceive sound vibration
• B. Perceive and transmit sound vibration
• C. Direct the animal towards the source of sound
• D. Perceive the motion of the head

Answer 1

The correct option is D Perceive the motion of the head

Each ear has three semicircular canals. These canals are C-shaped fluid-filled canals. Each semicircular canal lies in a different plane. The canals are oriented at right angles (at 90 degrees angle) to each other. There is a structure called crista ampullaris which acts as the sensory receptor for sensing and change the position of head or body. The semicircular canals maintain the dynamic balance of the body. So, the main function of semicircular canals in the vertebrates is to perceive the motion of the head.