Polarized Light in Animal Vision : Polarization Patterns in Nature
Editorial Reviews
Book Description
While the human eye can practically cope only with two aspects of light, brightness and colour, many animals use polarization as a further source of visual information. The text starts with an introduction into imaging polarimetry, an efficient technique for measuring light polarization, and moves onto a description of the various polarization patterns occurring in nature, such as celestial polarization.
The major part of the book is dedicated to the fascinating question: How do animals use polarization patterns? Following a compendium of the physiology of polarization sensitivity, several case studies are presented, such as honeybees or ants using polarized light as a compass or aquatic animals orientating by the underwater polarization. Further, it is explained how man-made objects affecting the natural optical environment may disorientate animals. For instance, as in the case where oil or glass surfaces can be more attractive for water-seeking polarotactic insects than the water surface.
Book Info
Eotvos Univ., Budapest, Hungary. Discusses how animals perceive and use natural and artificial polarization patterns, and a covers the physiological basis of polarization sensitivity. Presents several case studies of animal behavior determined or influenced by polarization. For researchers.
Polarized Light in Animal Vision: Polarization Patterns in Nature,Gábor Horváth,Dezsö Varjú,Springer,3540404570,Animal orientation,Earth Sciences - Meteorology & Climatology,General,Life Sciences - Biology - General,Life Sciences - Zoology - General,Physiological aspects,Physiology, Comparative,Polarization (Light),Psychology,Science,Vision,Science / Zoology
Books Review:
Recommended Books