Humans are trichromats, meaning we have three types of cone cells in our retinas that detect red, green, and blue wavelengths. However, color vision varies significantly across species:
- Birds and some insects are tetrachromats, having four types of cone cells, allowing them to see ultraviolet light
- Most mammals are dichromats, having only two types of cone cells, generally seeing blues and yellows
- Dogs and cats see fewer colors than humans but have superior night vision due to more rod cells
- Mantis shrimp have an incredible 16 color receptors, potentially seeing colors we can’t imagine
These differences evolved based on each species’ survival needs and environmental adaptations.