Which type of photoreceptors in the eye are responsible for night vision?

Rods are the type of photoreceptors responsible for night vision. They are highly sensitive to low light levels, making them crucial for seeing in dimly lit conditions. Rods contain a photopigment called rhodopsin, which allows them to be activated by minimal light, enabling vision even in darkness. This ability to function in low light is essential for nocturnal activities and contributes significantly to peripheral vision.

In contrast, cones are photoreceptors that are primarily responsible for color vision and visual acuity in bright light conditions. Bipolar cells and ganglion cells are part of the neural processing pathways in the retina, transmitting signals from photoreceptors to the brain, but they do not directly detect light. Therefore, rods play a crucial role in night vision by detecting light and contributing to the overall visual experience in low-light environments.