=== Cochlea ===

[[File:HistologicChapter19CochlearNerve.jpg|thumb|200px|Cochlear Nerve]]

The cochlea houses an elaborate configuration of membranous labyrinth and hair cells, called the organ of Corti, designed for auditory reception. The basic shape of the cochlea is that of a snail-shell, or tapering helix. The spiraling tunnel that forms the cochlea of the bony labyrinth is divided into three distinct channels by portions of the membranous labyrinth attached to bony ridges. The central column of the helical cochlea contains axons serving the organ of Corti on their way to the auditory nerve.