Light micrograph of a section through the fluid filled canal of the cochlea of the inner ear, showing the helicotrema (across bottom) and the vestibular membrane (across top). The helicotrema forms where two of the cochlea's fluid-filled chambers, the tympanic duct and the vestibular duct, meet at the apex of the cochlea. The vestibular membrane plays a role in transmitting noise vibrations to the organ of Corti. These vibrations are ultimately translated to electrical signals that are sent to the brain. Magnification: x600 when printed at 15cm tall.