Rhodopsin

Similar term(s): visual purple.

Definition:

Rhodopsin is a pigment of the retina, the light-sensitive inner lining of the back of the eye. The pigment is responsible for both the formation of the photoreceptor cells – specialized neurons that absorb light and convert that energy into a nerve signal – and the first events in the perception of light.

Rhodopsin is extremely sensitive to light, and enables vision in dim light.

Source: GreenFacts