This study was undertaken to determine the histologic distribution of the elastic fibers in the rat inner ear using modified Weigert's elastin stain. Abnormal compliance of the inner ear fluid system against otic capsule may regard as an important factor in the pathogenesis of inner ear disease. The changes of inner ear fluid volume are reflected by pressure changes within structure of the inner ear. The magnitude of these volume and pressure changes depend on the compliance of the membraneous labyrinth. It is characterized morphologically by the breakdown of the elastic supporting extracellular matrix(ECM) and physiologically by the loss of the elastic recoil of the elastic tissues. Bartoli proposed that the possible existence of volume receptors in the labyrinth capable of sensing extracellular fluid expansion and contraction. The distribution of elastic fibers on the inner ear have paid little attention to the subepithelial connective tissues of the inner ear. However, morphological research of elastic fibers may led to expect important role for normal functioning of inner ear. Cross sections of the rat inner ear that had been stained with modified Weigert's elastin technique were examined micoscopically to determine the histologic distribution of elastic fibers in inner ear. The mesh of elastic fibers is most abundant at the round window membrane. The connective tissue layer of the labyrinth has a moderate content of elastic tissue in all regions. These structural features seem to play important roles in response to small volume variation in inner ear function.