Tapetum lucidum
Tapetum Lucidum
Tapetum Lucidum (pronunciation: təˈpiːtəm ˈluːsɪdəm) is a layer of tissue in the eye found in many vertebrates. The term is Latin in origin, with "tapetum" meaning "carpet" and "lucidum" meaning "bright" or "shining".
Function
The primary function of the Tapetum Lucidum is to enhance night vision. It achieves this by reflecting visible light back through the retina, increasing the light available to the photoreceptors. This reflection is also responsible for the phenomenon known as "eye shine" in animals.
Structure
The Tapetum Lucidum is located directly behind the retina. It is a retroreflector that reflects light directly back along the light path. This retroreflection increases the light available to the photoreceptors, though it can cause reduced image clarity due to the scattering of the reflected light.
Species Variation
The presence and type of Tapetum Lucidum can vary between species. It is commonly found in nocturnal animals, such as cats and dogs, and is absent in humans and some other primates. The color of the tapetum lucidum can also vary, and is often seen as a bright, iridescent blue-green in the dark.
Related Terms
- Retina: The light-sensitive layer of tissue at the back of the inner eye.
- Photoreceptor Cell: A type of neuron in the retina that converts light into signals that can be processed by the brain.
- Nocturnal: Active during the night.
- Eye Shine: The reflection of light from the tapetum lucidum that gives many animals their distinctive 'glow' in the dark.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Tapetum lucidum
- Wikipedia's article - Tapetum lucidum
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