Spectral composition of the light of polynoid worms

Abstract

The spectral composition of the light of four species of polynoid worms has been measured, viz. Harmothoë longisetis, Gattyana cirrosa, Polynoë scolopendrina and Lagisca extenuata. The method involved the use of coloured spectral filters and two multiplier phototubes. The spectral emission curves of the four species are similar. They are asymmetrical in shape, prolonged towards longer wavelengths, with maxima at about 515 mμ (510–520 mμ.). Values for luminous efficiency are calculated (ratio of luminous flux to radiant flux); for human scotopic vision (λ_max at 505 mμ), efficiency is 61%.