In a surprising discovery, researchers found geckos use their inner ear for more than just balance. They can detect low-frequency ground vibrations, revealing a unique 'sixth sense'. This study, published in Current Biology, may reshape our understanding of reptile communication and evolution.
The research highlights the gecko's saccule, a part of the inner ear. While usually responsible for maintaining balance, it also allows the gecko to sense ground-based vibrations. This discovery suggests that other reptiles may have similar abilities.
A New 'Sixth Sense' Discovered in Reptiles
Professor Catherine Carr from the University of Maryland explains, “Typically, ears pick up airborne sound. But this ancient system lets geckos sense vibrations from the ground or water. It’s an evolutionary link between hearing in fish and land animals, including humans.”
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Geckos are now known to detect vibrations in the 50 to 200 Hz range, below the frequencies heard through their ears. Lead author Dawei Han, a postdoctoral researcher, suggests this may explain how 'deaf' reptiles like snakes and lizards communicate using ground vibrations. “This discovery changes the game,” says Han. “It opens up new avenues to study animal behaviour and may even shed light on human hearing and balance disorders.”
The study provides a fresh perspective on the evolution of animal hearing, challenging long-held beliefs and offering insight into the fascinating world of reptilian senses.
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