Coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM) of the tectorial membrane (upper frame) from the organ of Corti in the cochlear of the inner ear. In the organ of Corti hair cells convert vibrations from sound entering the ear into neural signals that are transmitted to auditory nerve fibres. The tectorial membrane lies over the hair cells and indentations (V-shaped) left from these cells can be seen on the membrane here. Magnification: x2,800 when printed at 15cm wide.