The inner ear is also called the internal ear, auris interna, and the labyrinth of the ear.

Internal Ear: Membranous Labyrinth

The internal ear, also known as the inner ear, is a complex structure located within the temporal bone of the skull. It is responsible for both hearing and balance. One of the components of the internal ear is the membranous labyrinth.

Membranous Labyrinth
The membranous labyrinth is a series of fluid-filled sacs and tubes that are encased within the bony labyrinth. It is composed of several structures, including the cochlea, the vestibule, and the semicircular canals.

Cochlea
The cochlea is a spiral-shaped structure that is responsible for hearing. It contains the sensory cells called hair cells, which convert sound vibrations into electrical signals that can be interpreted by the brain.

Vestibule
The vestibule is a small, oval-shaped structure located between the cochlea and the semicircular canals. It is responsible for detecting changes in head position and linear acceleration. It contains two sacs called the utricle and the saccule.

Utricle and Saccule
The utricle and saccule are responsible for detecting changes in the position of the head with respect to gravity. They contain sensory hair cells and tiny calcium carbonate crystals called otoliths. When the head moves, the otoliths shift, causing the hair cells to bend and send signals to the brain.

Semicircular Canals
The semicircular canals are three fluid-filled tubes that are arranged at right angles to each other. They are responsible for detecting rotational movements of the head. Each canal is filled with a fluid called endolymph, which moves in response to head movements. This movement stimulates hair cells, which then send signals to the brain.

Conclusion
The internal ear, also known as the inner ear, contains the membranous labyrinth. The membranous labyrinth consists of the cochlea, vestibule (which includes the utricle and saccule), and semicircular canals. These structures are responsible for hearing and balance, and they work together to ensure our ability to perceive sound and maintain our equilibrium.