Receptors detect minuscule vibrations: alligator

1 of 1 Pigmented domes on alligator / Roger Smith / License

Faces of alligators detect miniscule vibrations on air water interfaces via dome pressure receptors

Biomimicry Taxonomy

	Process information >
	Sense signals/environmental cues >
	Sound and other vibrations

Biomimetic Application Ideas

Ultrasound domes for medical imaging.

> Visit strategy page

[Collapse all sections] Summary

"Crocodilians have organ dome pressure receptors (DPRs) on their faces that are connected to the hypertrophied nerve system, and are capable of detecting very small disruptions in the surface of the surrounding water, caused by location of their prey. The faces of alligators (Alligator mississippiensis) are covered with small-pigmented domes, outside and inside the mouth. Experiments in full darkness with half submerged alligators revealed that they are sensitive to single water droplets, with their hearing organs shut. Soares [29] investigated this effect in crocodilians and lizards and found that only animals that are semi-aquatic show the same pattern of vibration perception as that of the crocodilians." (Collins 2004:170)

About the inspiring organism

Alligator, Gator, American alligator, Florida alligator, Mississippi alligator, Louisiana alligator.
Alligator mississippiensis DAUDIN 1802
[Mississippi-alligator]

IUCN Red List Status: Least Concern
Habitat(s): Wetlands

Some organism data provided by: TIGR Reptile Database
Organism/taxonomy data provided by:
Species 2000 & ITIS Catalogue of Life: 2008 Annual Checklist

Bioinspired products and application ideas

Application Ideas: Ultrasound domes for medical imaging.

Industrial Sector(s) interested in this strategy: Sensors, medical

Experts

Soares Lab Neuroethology
Daphne Soares
Biology Department, University of Maryland

References

Collins, M. 2004. Design and nature II: comparing design in nature with science and engineering. Southampton: WIT.

Soares, D. 2002. Neurology: An ancient sensory organ in crocodilians. Nature. 417(16 May): 241-242.

Receptors detect minuscule vibrations: alligator

Content tools

Curator of this page

Comments