Biologists Show How Eye's Neurons Switch Functions During Metamorphosis
Monday, June 30, 2008 - 11:35
in Biology & Nature
Researchers report that the photoreceptors in an insect's eye can change their traditional functions during metamorphosis. The researchers found that when photoreceptors responsible for detecting the color green die off during metamorphosis a second class of photoreceptors -- those responsible for detecting the color blue -- then fill the role of detecting the color green. These rare switches, the authors speculate, are likely the result of changing life patterns.