Investigations of the neurobiology of the lateral line sensory system and its use in feeding and behaviour in Antarctic fish

The anatomy, physiology and behaviour of Antarctic fishes and their use of the lateral line sensory system was investigated over three field seasons. Methodologies for comparing lateral line function with anatomy were investigated and a sensitivity measure and the form of the frequency response curve were used to measure response properties of the different lateral line end organs within the fish. A comparative study of some of the common and not so common McMurdo Sound fishes was conducted to explore the relationship of form and function in the lateral line system. The physiological studies were linked to detailed studies of the lateral line anatomy of these fishes and to field and laboratory observations of behaviour. A series of high resolution colour slides of all fish species were collected for use in further studies of lateral line morphology.