Question

Humans can typically see light in the range of 400-700nm. However, some animals can see at wavelengths outside of this range. For instance, bees and some spiders can see ultraviolet light, while snakes and other reptiles have vision extending to the infrared wavelengths. What adaptive advantages mights this extended vision offer these animals?

Answer 1

The ability to see colours beyond the visible range works as a sixth sense and offers several adaptive advantages. For instance, bees and some spiders can see ultraviolet light, which uncovers colours and patterns invisible to humans. This enable them to reach to the source of pollen and nectar. Further, snakes and other reptiles have vision extending to the infrared wavelengths. This helps detect the presence of warm-blooded prey and enables them to accurate attacks on prey.