Publication Date:
2020-07-15
Description:
The vertically migrating squid, Abralia trigonura, has at least two types of photophores involved in counterillumination. The most complex of these is described. We suggest that this photophore functions in the following manner. Innervated photocytes which contain crystalloids extract a component of the luminous reaction, presumably luciferin,
from blood vessels via numerous finger-like processes. Energy for the reaction is supplied by banks of mitochondrial cells. Light is emitted by the crystalloids which are stacked to form a photogenic cone. The photogenic cone lies at the focus of a spherical proximal reflector. This reflector is an interference structure that selectively reflects light outward and contributes to color regulation by the alteration of its reflectance characteristics through changes in the diameter of its Collagen rods. An interference filter, the axial stack, selectively transmits light and contributes to color regulation by altering the thickness of the fluid-filled spaces between its platelets.
Type:
Article
,
PeerReviewed
Format:
text
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