Schematic Eye Models in Vertebrates

Abstract

The fascinating diversity of vertebrate ocular structure was first captured in a single work by Soemmering in 1818. Over a century and a half after their publication, Soemmering’s engravings (Fig. 1) still raise a host of intriguing questions regarding how the vertebrate eye works as an optical system. Equally intriguing are the questions which are raised about the functions of the variety of eye shapes and sizes and the subsequent elucidation of general principles which may account for the diversity of eye structures.