Abstract
A Signal-to-Noise optimization model has now been extended to explain the range of species-specific polarization sensitivities of insects. The different polarization sensitivities are shown to represent optimizations for the detection of plane polarized (Rayleigh-scattered) skylight over a range of atmospheric polarization conditions. Rhodopsin absorption spectra with peaks in the Blue (λmax≈450 nm) maximize detection efficiencies under conditions of high polarization. Rhodopsin absorption spectra peaking in the UV (λmax≈350 nm) maximize Signal-to-Noise Ratios for the detection of polarized skylight at the other extreme of low polarization.
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Seliger, H.H., Lall, A.B. & Biggley, W.H. Blue through UV polarization sensitivities in insects. J Comp Physiol A 175, 475–486 (1994). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00199255
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00199255