The vestibule and semicircular canals contain the structures that provide the senses of balance and equilibrium. The vestibule contains the maculae of the utricle and saccule, which sense the stationary position and linear movement of the head. The maculae contain hair cells (H) with an overlying otolithic membrane, a gel-like layer with small crystals called otoliths. Movement of otoliths within the membrane displaces the stererocilia on the hair cells, producing nerve impulses. The semicircular canals are bony structures enclosing the membranous semicircular ducts, containing cristae ampullares that sense rotational movements of the head. Hair cells of the cristae are surrounded by a gel-like layer, the cupula (C). Movement of endolymph displaces the cupula and the stereocilia of the closely associated hair cells, producing nerve impulses.

Examine the images below and this slide for components of the inner ear's vestibular portion (utricle and saccule) and the semicircular canals. Identify the macula containing the otolithic membrane (OM) and the cristae ampularis.

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