Sea worms can distinguish moonlight from sunlight

At the same time, its activation occurs completely or partially depending on the type of light falling on the worms – lunar or solar. Furthermore, the scientists pointed out that this protein enables these individuals to perceive the changing phases of the moon.

In the course of their research, the experts investigated the molecular mechanisms of functioning directly characteristic of this L-Cry protein, which is significantly different from other cryptochromes. For this purpose, they involved cryoelectron microscopy and the protein molecules were considered after shock freezing in complete darkness and under red light to simulate the conditions of its existence.