Spatial distribution and morphological characteristics of the trunk lateral line neuromasts of the sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax, L.; Teleostei, Serranidae).

The morphology and spatial distribution of the different types of neuromasts encountered on the trunk lateral line of the sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax) were examined using scanning electron microscopy. The sea bass trunk lateral line exhibits a complete straight pattern. In their basic features, the two types of neuromasts present, canal and superficial, resemble what has been described in other fishes. They are similar in their general cellular organization but differ in sizes, and shapes, as well as in the densities and lengths of their hair bundles. However, the sea bass trunk lateral line distinguishes itself in several ways. For instance, the pores of the canal segments are partially obstructed due to the overlap of scales throughout the trunk. Moreover, based on the density and length of the hair bundles, two distinct areas, central and peripheral, could be distinguished within the maculae of canal neuromasts. Their cupulae are also peculiar as they possess two wing-like extensions and that their central core appears to be organized in layers instead of columns. In addition, the superficial neuromasts, up to 6 per scale, are either round or elliptical and seem to be distributed serendipitously. Finally, within the maculae of both types of neuromasts, a significant number of hair bundles do not follow the two-directional polarity pattern usually described. Although some hypotheses are proposed, the influence of these characteristics in terms of signal encoding and fish behavior is yet to be understood. Copyright 2003 S. Karger AG, Basel