NEUROMAST Meaning and
Definition
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A neuromast is a specialized sensory organ found in aquatic vertebrates, particularly fish and amphibians, that enables them to detect changes in water motion and pressure gradients. It is part of the lateral line system, a network of interconnected sensory cells and nerve fibers located along the body of these creatures. The neuromast consists of a cluster of hair cells covered by a gelatinous cupula, which is exposed to the surrounding water.
These hair cells within the neuromast are responsible for converting mechanical stimuli, such as water movement or vibrations, into electrical signals that can be interpreted by the nervous system. Each hair cell possesses hair-like projections called kinocilia and stereocilia, which are deflected by the water flow, triggering nerve impulses that are transmitted to the brain.
The function of neuromasts is crucial for many aquatic species as it provides information about the environment and aids in various essential activities, including navigation, prey detection, and predator avoidance. By detecting disturbances in water currents or pressure gradients, these sensory organs allow individuals to perceive other objects in their vicinity and respond accordingly.
The word "neuromast" is derived from the Greek words "neuron," meaning nerve, and "mastós," meaning breast or udder, which symbolizes the clustered structure of the sensory cells. Overall, neuromasts play a vital role in the sensory perception and survival of aquatic vertebrates in their underwater habitats.
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A sense-organ composed of neurepithelium; nerve-hillock.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for NEUROMAST
- beuromast
- meuromast
- jeuromast
- heuromast
- nwuromast
- nsuromast
- nduromast
- nruromast
- n4uromast
- n3uromast
- neyromast
- nehromast
- nejromast
- neiromast
- ne8romast
- ne7romast
- neueomast
- neudomast
- neufomast
- neutomast
Etymology of NEUROMAST
The word "neuromast" is derived from the combination of two terms: "neuro", which refers to nerves or the nervous system, and "mast", which comes from the Greek word "mastós" meaning "breast" or "mammary gland". In this context, "mast" indicates the structure's resemblance to a small lump or protrusion. "Neuromast" is primarily used to describe the sensory organs found in aquatic organisms that perceive changes in water movement or pressure.
