The embryological development of the ear is best understood by describing separately the individual development of the three major anatomical features that comprise the ear. Accordingly, although in the fetus, the development of the external ear, middle ear, and internal ear overlap in many areas and stages, the overall development of the ear may be studied by an individual study of these three structure.

The external ear develops from the upper portion of the first external pharyngeal groove and becomes an area of highly modified skin. Comprising ectoderm, the cells in this area, termed the meatal plate, continue to divide until they come in contact with cells destined to form the middle ear structure. The cells at this juncture will ultimately form the tympanic membrane. As development proceeds, the meatal plate thickens and becomes plug-like in form (the meatal plug). Eventually, a...