Specialized cells perform specialized functions in multicelled organisms. Groups of specialized cells cooperate to form a tissue, such as a muscle. Different tissues are in turn grouped together to form larger functional units, called organs. Each type of cell, tissue, and organ has a distinct structure and set of functions that serve the organism as a whole. Animal Eyes teaches these ideas by looking at the light-sensitive cells that are crucial to all types of eyes, from the simple photoreceptors of the earthworm to our own retina.
Students can see diagrams and models of the various tissues that make up an eye.
The exhibition also describes the specialized cells of eyes unlike our own, like the compound eyes of insects or the pinhole eye of the chambered nautilus. Although different species might look dissimilar, the unity among organisms becomes apparent from the analysis of internal structures, the similarity of their chemical processes, and the evidence of common ancestry. Structures of organisms show their adaptations to their environments and ways of life. Information about the environment is collected by all organisms. This information helps them adapt to local or temporary conditions, to obtain food, and to resist predation and death.