Rods and Cones

The two types of light-sensitive cells of the retina are rods and cones. Named because of their cylindrical shape, rods are interspersed throughout the retina. They are highly sensitive to low light and shadow and allow for at least some degree of nighttime vision. Cones are present throughout the retina also, but are very highly concentrated in the fovea of the macula. Different cones are sensitive to different wavelengths and allow one to see vivid colors and sharp detail in conditions of bright light. There are 20 times more rods than cones.

File 224

Encyclopedia Categories

GET AUTOMATIC UPDATES

Only the News You Want

Subscribe to Macula.Org news by category, topic or even the name of a disease!

CLICK HERE TO LEARN HOW.

SHARE OR SAVE THIS