Pupillometry in seals and sea lions: ecological implications

摘要: Phocid and otariid pinnipeds forage almost exclusively under water, where observing them is difficult. As a result, little known of how their senses are used while diving to locate capture prey. In this study we pupillometric methods describe the relative visual abilities three pinniped species: northern elephant seal (Mirounga angustirostris), harbor (Phoca vitulina), California sea lion (Zalophus californianus). The range pupillary area lower limit adjustment were determined for each species. exhibited largest species examined. Furthermore, seal's pupil was found reach maximum size only extremely dim conditions. Both dilation in conditions several log units brighter. These results indicate that system designed function dimmer respond greate...