Dissertational Improvement: Polarization Sensitivity in Ophiuroids: The Structure and Ecological Function of a Diffuse Photic System

[9411834] [qh]海蛇尾的感觉系统是矛盾的，因为它结合了高反应性、快速运动和偶尔的掠夺行为，却完全没有独立的感觉器官。此外，海蛇尾可以区分偏振光和非偏振光，这种感知可能是基于通过偏振光骨架的不同光传输。这项研究将为以下方面提供重要信息：(1)漫反射感觉系统的性质和能力；(2)极化敏感性的可能新机制。实验将决定是否以及如何利用海蛇尾内骨骼的新光学特性。这一建议概述了第一次有机会研究生物偏振过滤器的功能。＊＊＊

9411834 Kier The brittle star sensory system is paradoxical in that it combines high reactivity, quick movements, and occasional predatory behavior with a total lack of a discrete sense organ. In addition brittle stars can discriminate between polarized and unpolarized light and this perception could be based on differential light transmission through a polarizing skeleton. This study will provide crucial information on (1) the nature and capabilities of diffuse sensory systems and (2) a possibly novel mechanism of polarization sensitivity. Experiments will determine whether and how the novel optical property of the endoskeleton of the brittle star is used by the animal. This proposal outlines the first opportunity to study the function of a biological polarizing filter. ***