The otoconia are composite crystallites that overlie the macular sensory epithelium of the gravity receptors of most vertebrates and are required for optimal stimulus input of linear acceleration and gravity. Fishes often have a single large crystal called an otolith, but otoconia from higher vertebrates have numerous crystals, and each apparently single crystal in fact has multiple crystallites that are composed of organic and inorganic components.
Otoconia are composite crystallites that serve as receptors for linear acceleration and gravity stimuli across most vertebrates. They play a crucial role in the sensory system. Fishes typically have a single large crystal called an otolith, while otoconia from higher vertebrates consist of numerous crystals, each made up of multiple organic and inorganic components.