The électrocytes , or electric cells , are highly specialized cells, able to produce electric shocks. They are present at the electric fish. They are modified Myocyte S receiving from cholinergic projections of Neuron S electric motors. The junction between the cholinergic termination and the électrocytes resemble much the Jonction neuromusculaire, which was worth to him to be a model appreciated in the Recherche in Neuroscience for the description as of the synaptic Transmission.
At the electric Eel, each électrocyte can cause a tension of 0,15 V.
In the torpedo, the Gymnote and electric eel the électrocytes are organized in electric bodies. At the torpedo, the electric bodies are located close to the pectoral muscles and the gills. In other species, they are located at the base of the tail. In the electric catfish, the électrocytes are distributed on the surface of the epithelium, and in particular in the Peau.
The production of electric shock is used especially for perception of the environment. An electric field is produced, and the disturbances of this field are perceived by receivers. Certain electric fish are nevertheless able to produce discharges of very strong intensity, to secure themselves against a Prédateur, or to drive out a prey.
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