Sense organs

The sense organs refer to anatomically distinct, specialized structures responsible for perceiving and transmitting sensory stimuli from the external and internal environments to the central nervous system. These organs enable animals to interact adaptively with their surroundings through the modalities of vision, hearing, equilibrium, taste, smell, and touch. Each sensory organ is composed of a combination of sensory epithelial cells, supportive tissues, and afferent neural pathways, organized to detect specific types of stimuli with precision and speed.

The classical sense organs include the organ of vision, the organum vestibulocochleare [auris], the olfactory organ, the gustatory organ, and the cutaneous mechanoreceptors responsible for tactile perception. Each organ is built upon a foundation of modified epithelial or neuroepithelial cells that transduce physical or chemical stimuli into electrical signals. These signals are then conveyed by dedicated cranial or spinal nerves to the brain, where they are interpreted into conscious sensory experiences or reflexive motor responses.

The anatomical configuration and relative development of sense organs vary among domestic species, reflecting ecological niches and behavioral adaptations.