Electrosensory optimization to conspecific phasic signals for mating.

ABSTRACT

Ampullary electroreceptor systems in fishes and aquatic amphibians are known to function in prey localization by the movement of the animal through a weak dc field produced by their prey. The round stingray produces an electric field with a complex geometry that is modulated rhythmically by movements of the spiracles and gill slits during ventilation. This weak stimulus is used in the field by reproductively active male stingrays to locate mates, and also by female rays to locate buried consexuals. Electrosensory primary afferent neurons are most sensitive to stimuli that vary sinusoidally at the same frequency as the natural respiratory movements. The match between primary afferent frequency sensitivity and the ventilatory phasic signals produced by conspecifics indicates that the electrosensory system serves an important biological function in the social behavior of elasmobranchs.