The reticular membrane (RM, also called reticular lamina or apical cuticular plate)[1] is a thin, stiff lamina that extends from the outer hair cells to the Hensen's cells.

[2] The RM is composed of "minute-fiddle-shaped cuticular structures" called the phalangeal extensions of the outer hair cells, interspaced with extensions coming from the outer phalangeal cells.

[3] The RM separates endolymph in the cochlear duct from underlying corticolymph and perilymph of the scala tympani.

The inner phalangeal cells that surround the inner hair cells reach the surface of the organ of Corti, but, even their inner-most row, are not included in the reticular membrane.

[2] Thus, the RM up to the outer edge of the tectorial membrane and does not extend unto the surface of the organ of Corti.