Characterization of an ultraviolet photoreception mechanism in the retina of an amphibian, the axolotl (Ambystoma mexicanum).

Spectral sensitivity measurements from the retina of the Mexican salamander Ambystoma mexicanum (the 'axolotl') were used to provide evidence for and to characterize an amphibian ultraviolet-sensitive photoreception mechanism. Electroretinograms (transretinal voltage responses) were recorded from open eye cup preparations to analyze the spectral sensitivity of the retina. Both dark-adapted and white light-adapted preparations exhibited a peak in sensitivity between 360-370 nm. Under selective chromatic adaptation with long-wavelength light the eye cups continued to exhibit a peak sensitivity around 360 nm. These data confirm the presence of ultraviolet-sensitive cones in the retina of Ambystoma salamanders. The possible relevance of these results to the development and behavior of this group of salamanders is briefly discussed.