Utriculus , sacculus and semicircular canals of mammalian ear contain

Options

A. otolith
B. branches of VIII cranial nerve
C. nerve fibres of III cranial nerve
D. nerve fibres of V cranial nerve

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding the Structures**: The utriculus (or utricle), sacculus (or saccule), and semicircular canals are parts of the inner ear, specifically involved in the vestibular system, which is responsible for balance and spatial orientation.

2. **Identifying the Function**: The utricle and saccule are responsible for detecting gravitational forces and linear acceleration. The semicircular canals detect rotational movements.

3. **Evaluating the Options**:
- **Option 1: Autolyth** - This term refers to the otoliths found within the utricle and saccule, but it does not encompass the entire structure of these components or the semicircular canals. Therefore, this option is incorrect.
- **Option 2: Branches of the 8th cranial nerve** - The 8th cranial nerve, also known as the vestibulocochlear nerve, is responsible for transmitting sensory information from the inner ear to the brain. This option is correct.
- **Option 3: Nerve fibers of the 3rd cranial nerve** - The 3rd cranial nerve, or oculomotor nerve, primarily controls eye movements and is not related to the structures in question. Hence, this option is incorrect.
- **Option 4: Nerve fibers of the 5th cranial nerve** - The 5th cranial nerve, or trigeminal nerve, is responsible for sensation in the face and motor functions such as biting and chewing. This option is also incorrect.

4. **Conclusion**: After evaluating all options, the correct answer is that the utriculus, sacculus, and semicircular canals of the mammalian ear contain the branches of the 8th cranial nerve.

**Final Answer**: The correct answer is the branches of the 8th cranial nerve.

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