Biological Response to the Dynamic Spectral-Polarized Underwater Light Field

Abstract

Abstract : Camouflage in marine environments requires matching all of the background optical properties: spectral, intensity and polarization components all of which can change dynamically in space and time. Current research suggests that polarization detection is more sensitive than other conventional detection methods in scattering media such as the ocean, hence underscoring the need to develop polarized camouflage technology. Our research investigates the biological challenge of camouflage in the near-shore littoral zone and near-surface marine environments in two distinct water types found in coastal environments around the globe (oligotrophic and eutrophic) with particular emphasis on the polarization properties. We aim to characterize the dynamic light field along with the behavioral and cellular response of camouflaging animals in these environments. Our long-term goal is to identify the biological pathways for concealment against the underwater spectral-polarized light field enabling us to identify design principles for future naval camouflage.