TAPETUM LUCIDUM Meaning and
Definition
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The tapetum lucidum is a specialized layer of tissue that exists in the eyes of certain animals, primarily mammals, although some other species like fish and reptiles also possess it. The term "tapetum lucidum" is derived from Latin, where "tapetum" means carpet or tapestry, and "lucidum" translates to bright or shining.
Anatomically, the tapetum lucidum is positioned behind the retina, situated in the eye's posterior region. It functions as a reflective layer that aids in enhancing night vision by maximizing the available light for photoreceptor cells. This layer contains numerous reflective crystals or cells called guanine crystals that help bounce incoming light back through the retina to be detected by the photoreceptor cells for a second time, thus increasing the sensitivity to low light conditions.
The tapetum lucidum's reflective nature enables various animals to possess a greater advantage in nocturnal activities, allowing for better visibility in dim lighting environments. Consequently, it contributes to an enhanced perception of motion and increased visual acuity under low-light conditions. Additionally, the tapetum lucidum often imparts a characteristic eyeshine to animals, reflecting light and resulting in glowing eyes in certain situations, such as when illuminated by a source of light in the dark.
Overall, the tapetum lucidum is an evolutionary adaptation that provides animals with an advantageous ability to see in low-light environments, aiding in their survival, hunting, and navigation during the nighttime.
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A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for TAPETUM LUCIDUM
Etymology of TAPETUM LUCIDUM
The word "tapetum lucidum" has Latin origins.
"Tapetum" comes from the Latin term "tapete", meaning a carpet or cover. In ancient Rome, this term referred to a richly decorated cloth or carpet used to cover tables or floors during banquets or celebrations. The word "tapetum" was later adopted in anatomy to describe a layer of tissue or cells that covers or lines a certain structure.
"Lucidum" is derived from the Latin adjective "lucidus", meaning bright, shining, or clear. It comes from the verb "lucere", which means to shine or give light. In the case of "tapetum lucidum", "lucidum" emphasizes its function of reflecting light within a specific biological structure.
When combined, "tapetum lucidum" roughly translates to "bright carpet" or "shining cover".
