University of Maryland biologists have discovered a hidden sensory talent in geckos that challenges existing ideas about animal hearing. In a study published in Current Biology on October 4, 2024, researchers found that geckos use the saccule, a part of their inner ear traditionally associated with balance, to detect low-frequency vibrations. This “sixth sense” complements the geckos’ normal hearing and may also be present in other reptilian species, shedding light on the evolution of auditory systems from fish to land animals, including humans.
The saccule in geckos can detect vibrations ranging from 50 to 200 Hz, a range below what the geckos can typically hear. This unique role of the saccule indicates that it serves a distinct yet complementary function to the geckos’ regular auditory system. The discovery of the saccule’s role in gecko hearing may lead to a better understanding of communication and behavior in other animals previously considered to have limited auditory capabilities, such as snakes and lizards thought to be ‘mute’ or ‘deaf.’
The shared sensory pathway found in modern reptiles offers insight into the evolutionary history of vertebrate sensory systems. It suggests that the transition from aquatic to terrestrial environments likely involved more complex and gradual changes in hearing mechanisms than previously thought, challenging traditional views on animal perception. While these findings are not directly related to how humans hear, the researchers believe that there may be more to our sense of hearing and balance than currently understood.
According to lead author Dawei Han, the discovery of this sensory pathway in geckos may prompt further investigations into mammalian hearing, particularly in the context of the vestibular system. This established link between hearing and balance could open up new avenues for research, potentially leading to insights into human hearing and balance disorders. The researchers hope to uncover hidden mechanisms that enhance our understanding of how animals perceive and interact with their environments.
The implications of this research extend beyond reptiles, offering a richer and more nuanced understanding of animal sensory experiences. As these hidden mechanisms are uncovered, scientists are gaining new insights into how animals perceive and interact with their surroundings. By studying how geckos use the saccule to detect vibrations, researchers are providing a new perspective on the relationship between hearing and balance in animals, potentially offering new insights into our own sensory experiences.
This study was supported by the National Institutes of Health, highlighting the importance of further research into the interplay between hearing and balance in animals. By uncovering the hidden sensory talents of geckos, researchers are paving the way for a deeper understanding of how animals navigate their environments and interact with one another. This groundbreaking research challenges traditional views on animal hearing and offers a new perspective on the evolution of sensory systems in vertebrates.