Colour in Nature
1. Animal Colour Vision
2. Colour in Cephalopods and
Chameleons
normalized cone sensitivity functions the Stockman & Sharpe (2000) 10° quantal cone
fundamentals, normalized to equal peak values on a linear vertical scale (handprint)
Comparison of wavelengths visible to humans and
bees.
Birds have an elaborate variety of cones cells, with
more morphological complexity and diversity than those
of mammals.
Four types of photo-pigment have been identified in
the European starling; these have peak sensitivities over
a much broader range than those of humans.
Oil droplets inside cones from a European starling.
- act as cut-off filters
- enhance visual contrast
visible
Invisible patterns are revealed on this black-eyed Susan and
Cleopatra butterfly in ultraviolet light.
UV
Cephalopod colour:
example - Cuttlefish
Examples of Camouflage and Anti-predator Responses