Published , Modified Abstract on Cryptic Sense of Orientation of Bats Localized: The Sixth Sense of Mammals Lies in the Eye Original source
Cryptic Sense of Orientation of Bats Localized: The Sixth Sense of Mammals Lies in the Eye
Bats are fascinating creatures that have long been known for their unique ability to navigate in complete darkness. They use echolocation, a process where they emit high-pitched sounds and listen for the echoes that bounce back from objects in their environment. However, recent research has revealed that bats have another sense that helps them navigate, one that is even more mysterious and cryptic than echolocation. This sixth sense is localized in the eye and plays a crucial role in the bat's ability to orient itself in space.
The Discovery of Cryptochrome
The discovery of this sixth sense is based on the identification of a protein called cryptochrome. Cryptochrome was first discovered in plants, where it plays a role in regulating the circadian rhythm. Later, it was found to be present in animals as well, including mammals. In mammals, cryptochrome is found in the retina of the eye, where it plays a crucial role in regulating the biological clock.
The Role of Cryptochrome in Bat Navigation
Recent research has shown that cryptochrome also plays a crucial role in bat navigation. Bats use the Earth's magnetic field to navigate, and cryptochrome is thought to be responsible for detecting this magnetic field. This ability to detect magnetic fields is known as magnetoreception.
How Cryptochrome Works
The exact mechanism by which cryptochrome detects magnetic fields is not yet fully understood. However, it is thought that when cryptochrome absorbs light, it undergoes a chemical reaction that produces two radical pairs. These radical pairs are sensitive to magnetic fields and can be used to detect them.
The Importance of Cryptochrome for Bats
The discovery of cryptochrome has important implications for our understanding of bat navigation. It helps explain how bats are able to navigate so accurately and efficiently, even in complete darkness. It also suggests that other animals may have similar abilities, as cryptochrome is found in many different species of animals.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the discovery of cryptochrome and its role in bat navigation is a fascinating development in the field of animal behavior. It sheds light on the mysterious sixth sense of mammals and helps us understand how these creatures are able to navigate in complete darkness. As research continues, we may learn even more about this remarkable ability and its implications for our understanding of the natural world.
FAQs
1. What is cryptochrome?
Cryptochrome is a protein found in the retina of the eye that plays a crucial role in regulating the biological clock and detecting magnetic fields.
2. How do bats navigate?
Bats use echolocation and their ability to detect magnetic fields to navigate.
3. What is magnetoreception?
Magnetoreception is the ability to detect magnetic fields.
4. Do other animals have cryptochrome?
Yes, cryptochrome is found in many different species of animals, including mammals, birds, and reptiles.
5. What are the implications of this research?
The discovery of cryptochrome and its role in bat navigation helps us understand how these creatures are able to navigate so accurately and efficiently, even in complete darkness. It also suggests that other animals may have similar abilities.
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