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Spectral sensitivity in jumping spiders (Araneae, Salticidae)

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Summary

  1. 1.

    We report here a psychophysical technique for studying the spectral sensitivity of jumping spiders (family Salticidae), based on a newly discovered oculomotor reflex.

  2. 2.

    Our results, obtained fromMaevia inclemens (Salticidae), are compatible with electrophysiological findings of retinal cells maximally sensitive in the green and ultraviolet regions of the spectrum.

  3. 3.

    Sensitivity to longer wavelengths (>650 nm) has been controversial. In our study jumping spiders are shown to have a broad spectral sensitivity function extending from the ultraviolet (330 nm) to the deep red (700 nm).

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Abbreviations

AL :

anterior lateral (eyes)

AM :

anterior median (eyes)

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Physiological Optics, The Medical Center/School of Optometry, University of Alabama at Birmingham, UAB Station, 35294, Birmingham, Alabama, USA

    Alan G. Peaslee & Graeme Wilson

Authors
  1. Alan G. Peaslee
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  2. Graeme Wilson
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Peaslee, A.G., Wilson, G. Spectral sensitivity in jumping spiders (Araneae, Salticidae). J. Comp. Physiol. 164, 359–363 (1989). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00612995

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00612995

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