What are the sensory nerve endings located close to the surface of the skin called?

The sensory nerve endings located close to the surface of the skin are referred to as receptors. These structures are specialized to detect various types of stimuli such as touch, pressure, temperature, and pain. Receptors play a vital role in the sensory systems by converting physical stimuli into electrical signals that can be interpreted by the brain.

In this context, receptors are essential for providing the body with information about the external environment, allowing for appropriate responses. They are often found clustered in specific areas of the skin, enabling heightened sensitivity in those regions. This is why the term 'receptors' is the correct answer when describing these sensory nerve endings.