An otolith ( (Ancient Greek: ὠτο-, ōto- ear + λῐ́θος, líthos, a stone) is a small crystal inside a structure in the inner ear; this structure, consisting of three hollow, connected tubes (the vestibular system) allows humans and many animals to sense orientation (up/down) in space, movement in space (including direction), and acceleration/decele...

The otoliths (ear-stones) are small structures located in the inner ear used to register gravity and linear acceleration. Quail otoconia from Dickman et al (2004). Most creatures have otoconia. …

Displacements and linear accelerations of the head, such as those induced by tilting or translational movements (see Box A), are detected by the two otolith organs: the sacculus and the utricle. Both of these organs contain a sensory epithelium, the macula, which consists of hair cells and associated supporting cells.

The otolithic membrane is a fibrous structure located in the vestibular system of the inner ear. It plays a critical role in the brain 's interpretation of equilibrium. The membrane serves to determine if the body or the head is tilted, in addition to the linear acceleration of the body.

Jul 5, 2022 · The otoliths are the part of our inner ear that sense linear movements and gravity. Problems in the utricle and saccule can cause vestibular symptoms like rocking, swaying, dropping, or feeling pushed or pulled. Learn more about otolithic dysfunction and how vestibular rehab could help.

Otoconia are bio-crystals which couple mechanic forces to the sensory hair cells in the utricle and saccule, a process essential for us to sense linear acceleration and gravity for the purpose of maintaining bodily balance. In fish, structurally similar bio-crystals called otoliths mediate both balance and hearing.

…particles of calcium carbonate, called otoliths, that weigh against the hairs. Unusual stimulation of the vestibular receptors and semicircular canals can cause sensory distortions in visual and motor activity. The resulting discord between visual and motor responses and the external space (as aboard a ship in rough waters) often leads…

4 days ago · The otolithic membrane’s composition ensures sensitivity to a wide range of accelerations. Research in “Hearing Research” (2022) highlights that any disruption in the otolithic membrane’s integrity can lead to balance disorders, emphasizing its role in detecting linear forces. Understanding the dynamics of the otolithic membrane ...

These projections extend into a gelatinous membrane called the otolithic membrane. Resting on top of this membrane are microscopic crystals made of calcium carbonate called otoconia. These are commonly referred to as “ear rocks” or “ear stones.”

…saccule, are known as the otolith organs. Because they respond to gravitational forces, they are also called gravity receptors. Each sac has on its inner surface a single patch of sensory cells called a macula, which monitors the position of the head relative to …