Mantis shrimp can see colors invisible to us because they possess special sensory cells called photoreceptors, sensitive to polarized light and ultraviolet wavelengths that our human eye cannot detect.
Mantis shrimp have truly unique eyes, composed of thousands of facets called ommatidia. These eyes function independently of one another and move in all directions, providing exceptional panoramic vision. Each eye is divided into three distinct zones, allowing for simultaneous perception from multiple angles. But above all, these crustaceans possess a dozen types of color-sensitive cells (compared to just three in humans), enabling them to detect an immense range of light wavelengths, including those we cannot see, such as ultraviolet and infrared. In short, these peculiar crustaceans are equipped like no other to decipher the world around them.
These crustaceans possess up to 16 different types of photoreceptors in their eyes (compared to only 3 in humans). As a result, they capture a much broader range of light than we do. Some photoreceptors are specifically specialized to detect light in the ultraviolet (UV) or near-infrared spectrum. The UV allows them to better detect fluorescent marine organisms and accurately identify their prey or their peers. On the infrared side, they can perceive subtle changes in light or heat, which is useful for spotting prey or predators. All of this makes them particularly efficient and formidable in the depths of the ocean!
Mantis shrimp eyes have specialized receptors capable of detecting a wide range of wavelengths, far beyond what our own eyes can perceive. They possess up to 16 types of photoreceptors, while we are limited to just three (red, blue, green). Their receptors can capture ultraviolet light as well as certain ranges of infrared, which are usually invisible to us. Additionally, each eye moves independently and consists of three distinct areas called pseudo-pupils, ensuring exceptional 360° vision without even turning the head. This unique organization allows them to process visual information at high speed, particularly due to a part of the brain specially dedicated to processing these unusual signals.
Mantis shrimp use their extraordinary vision to detect invisible prey to other species and spot certain predators, thanks to these unusual colors. Seeing in ultraviolet allows them to observe the fluorescent patterns that adorn their peers, thus better identifying a mate or intimidating a rival. Similarly, perceiving near-infrared can be useful for detecting subtle thermal variations in their environment. This super-vision gives them a unique advantage for survival, hunting, and reproduction in a marine environment where every detail counts.
Mantis shrimp have up to 16 different types of photoreceptors in their eyes, while humans only have 3, giving them an extraordinary ability to perceive specific color nuances that are invisible to us.
The vision of mantis shrimp is so sophisticated that some scientists are looking to draw inspiration from it to develop new camera technologies capable of quickly detecting cancer cells or other medical anomalies that are invisible to the naked eye.
Each eye of the mantis shrimp has independent trinocular vision, which means it can perceive depth and distance with just one eye. Handy during its lightning-fast attacks, isn't it?
Mantis shrimps can detect circular polarization of light, a visual ability that is extremely rare in the animal kingdom and completely absent in humans. This skill may allow them to communicate secretly with their peers while remaining inconspicuous to their predators.
Absolutely! A deep understanding of their visual system could inspire innovations in medical imaging, security detection, multispectral cameras, as well as the development of highly sensitive visual sensors for various industrial and scientific applications.
Sure! Here’s the translation: "Yes, in terms of complexity and visual performance, mantis shrimps possess some of the most sophisticated visual systems in the animal kingdom. Equipped with sixteen different types of photoreceptors, their eyes allow them to perceive a spectrum of colors much broader than that accessible to the human eye."
Scientists are studying the structure and physiology of mantis shrimp eyes using advanced biological techniques such as electron microscopy, spectrophotometry, and laboratory visual behavior analysis. They particularly examine the perceptual performance of these crustaceans in response to different electromagnetic wavelengths.
Although several aquatic species detect ultraviolet light due to their underwater environment, infrared vision remains very rare in marine settings. Mantis shrimps are particularly exceptional due to their ability to simultaneously detect a wide range of the visual spectrum, including several colors that are "invisible" to the human eye.
Thanks to their ability to perceive ultraviolet and infrared light, mantis shrimp can detect prey and predators that are invisible to the eyes of other marine animals. They can also communicate and identify partners through these specific colors, thereby enhancing their survival and reproduction.
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