Nature Podcast

How do fish know where a sound comes from? Scientists have an answer

Jun 19, 2024

Researchers uncover how specific nerve structures in the genitals sense touch during sex. Fish can now detect the source of sound underwater using pressure and particle motion. Recent studies reveal potential names and communication methods among elephants, shedding light on their social behavior.

31:42

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Quick takeaways

Kraus corpuscles in genitals are crucial for light touches and vibrations during sex.

Fish detect sound direction using a complex interplay of pressure and particle motion.

Deep dives

Understanding Sexual Sensory Organs

Researchers have delved into the sensory organs involved in perceiving light touches during sex. Known as Kraus corpuscles, these structures have remained mysterious despite being discovered over 150 years ago. Through detailed research on mouse models, it was revealed that the corpuscles are diverse, with varying complexities in genitals. Physiological recordings showed that the neurons in clitorises are more sensitive than in penises, hinting at potential implications for sexual function.

Intro

2min

Sensory Nerve Study on Genitals & Other Research Highlights

8min

Understanding Fish Sound Localization

11min

Revealing Secrets of Maya Sacrifices Through Ancient DNA

5min

Research on Elephant Communication and Potential Use of Names

3min

Exploring Elephant Communication and Conservation with AI

3min

00:46 How light touches are sensed during sex

150 years after they were discovered, researchers have identified how specific nerve-cell structures on the penis and clitoris are activated. While these structures, called Krause corpuscles, are similar to touch-activated corpuscles found on people’s fingers and hands, there was little known about how they work, or their role in sex. Working in mice, a team found that Krause corpuscles in both male and females were activated when exposed to low-frequency vibrations and caused sexual behaviours like erections. The researchers hope that this work could help uncover the neurological basis underlying certain sexual dysfunctions.

News: Sensory secrets of penis and clitoris unlocked after more than 150 years

Research article: Qi et al.

News and Views: Sex organs sense vibrations through specialized touch neurons

07:03 Research Highlights

Astronomers struggle to figure out the identity of a mysterious object called a MUBLO, and how CRISPR gene editing could make rice plants more water-efficient.

Research Highlight: An object in space is emitting microwaves — and baffling scientists

Research Highlight: CRISPR improves a crop that feeds billions

09:21 How fish detect the source of sound

It’s long been understood that fish can identify the direction a sound came from, but working out how they do it is a question that’s had scientists stumped for years. Now using a specialist setup, a team of researchers have demonstrated that some fish can independently detect two components of a soundwave — pressure and particle motion — and combine this information to identify where a sound comes from.

Research article: Veith et al.

News and Views: Pressure and particle motion enable fish to sense the direction of sound

D. cerebrum sounds: Schulze et al.