Weberian ossicle


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Weberian ossicle

a small group of bones, probably derived from the vertebrae, that connects the air bladder of the OSTARIOPHYSI with the ear capsule, named after the German physiologist Ernst Weber (1795–1878).
Collins Dictionary of Biology, 3rd ed. © W. G. Hale, V. A. Saunders, J. P. Margham 2005
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In fish like catfish and minnows, the swim bladder is connected to the inner ear by a special set of bones called Weberian ossicles. This physical connection allows a greater range and probably also more sensitive hearing.
What Crappies Hear
The gas-filled swim bladder, which is more compliant to vibration than the fish's body, senses the pressure difference caused by the sound wave; its motion is transferred via bones called the Weberian ossicles to the inner ear.
Hearing aid
Catfish and minnows hear better than bass, trout, and other common gamefish because they have Weberian ossicles, bony structures that connect the swim bladder to the inner ear.
Slow-trolling cats

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