Chocolate-chip sea star uses natural optic fibres for light focusing
The chocolate-chip sea star (Protoreaster nodosus) possesses a remarkable structure on its arm tips. A skeletal part contains cone-shaped structures that act like optic fibres, transmitting 70% of incident light and concentrating it nearly threefold at the base. This array captures light from a 120° field of view and brightens it eight times inside the arm. Scientists suggest this natural design could inspire lightweight sensors and displays.
Key Points
- Chocolate-chip sea stars have natural optic fibre-like structures on their arm tips.
- These structures transmit and concentrate incident light.
- The array captures light from a wide field of view and significantly brightens it.
- This natural design offers potential inspiration for engineering lightweight sensors.
Exam Facts
- Species: Chocolate-chip sea star (Protoreaster nodosus).
- Light transmission: 70% of incident light.
- Light concentration: Nearly 3x at the base.
- Field of view: 120°.
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