THE HIGH-FREQUENCY SENSITIVITY OF THE GUINEA PIG EAR

Abstract

The high frequency sensitivity of guinea pig ears was tested by means of ochlear potentials. Maximum sensitivity was in the region of 500-700 cycles; sensitivity was well-maintained up to 40,000 to 55,000 cycles, and then it rapidly decreased. In the uppermost frequencies, from 70,000 to 100,000 cycles, considerable individual differences were noted. The authors hypothesize that the behavioral acuity of the guinea pig ear will be well maintained up to a frequency of about 55,000 cycles, and will thereafter swiftly fail.