Sense organs and communication

Zebrafish...

  • Are able to see color in the 340 nm (UV) to 640 nm (red) wavelength range. 
  • Can hear: they have an inner ear. There is a connection between the swim bladder and the inner ear. The swim bladder responds to pressure changes, which are transmitted to the inner ear. Zebrafish have acute hearing in the low frequency range of 100-4000 Hz, with a ~ 800 Hz optimum. 
  • Have a system of lateral lines that enables them to detect pressure differences and vibration caused by movement in the water.
  • Have a good sense of smell; they use pheromones to communicate about reproduction and threats. Skin lesions, for example, cause the release of “alarm pheromones”, which trigger a potent (flight)response in zebrafish.