Visual spectral sensitivity of loggerhead (Caretta caretta L.) and leatherback (Dermochelys coriacea L.) hatchlings: A comparative study

Author

• Judith P. Gocke

Author Type

Graduate Student

Date of Award

2003

Document Type

Thesis

Publication Status

Version of Record

Submission Date

October 2026

Thesis/Dissertation Advisor [Chair]

Salmon, Michael

Abstract

In the ocean, lighting varies with habitat; the eye's spectral sensitivity must vary with visual ecology. Green turtles are the only sea turtle whose spectral sensitivity has been studied. Loggerheads and leatherbacks see visible light between 340 and 700 nm. However, the wavelengths detected with the greatest sensitivity by both species are those best transmitted at the specific depths where food, mates and predators are likely to be encountered. Both species have trichromatic vision, but the species differ in the concentration and peak sensitivity of each visual pigment resulting in either a broadly tuned (loggerhead) or finely tuned (leatherback) spectral sensitivity. Spectral sensitivity of leatherbacks overlaps both bioluminescence of prey, and light available in clear, deep, oceanic waters.

Extent

47 p.

Comments

Thesis (M.S.)--Florida Atlantic University, 2003.|Thesis (M.S.)--Florida Atlantic University, 2003.

Recommended Citation

Gocke, Judith P., "Visual spectral sensitivity of loggerhead (Caretta caretta L.) and leatherback (Dermochelys coriacea L.) hatchlings: A comparative study" (2003). Electronic Theses and Dissertations 2000 - 2009. 654.
https://digitalcommons.fau.edu/etd_general_5/654

Identifier

FADT13029

Format

pdf