Tectorial membrane from cochlea, SEM

SEM of guinea pig cochlea, showing tectorial membrane with V-shaped footprints where tallest row of stereocilia from each outer hair cell attach. Note that only the tips of the stereocilia are embedded in this membrane. Stereocilia ofinner hair cells do not show such footprints. Magnification X 10 000. Credit: Dr Spiro Comis/WTMPL.