A Little Bit More
Until countershading was discussed in the literature, it was basically an unknown phenomenon to all but those in the art world. Artists were not aware of the biological significance of this phenomenon, but they were actively working against natural countershading in their own creations as they attempted to create roundness, depth and solidity on flat, 2-dimensional surfaces.
Abbott Thayer conducted research on countershading as long ago as 1892 and described it in the scientific literature of his day. For this reason, this phenomenon is sometimes referred to as Thayer’s Law.
Without countershading, this even-toned duck model looks like this in strong sunlight.
Countershading is probably most familiar to us when we visualize the sharks and dolphins of the open sea – we’ve all seen it even if we didn’t understand its significance. When seen from above (bird’s-eye view), their darker backs help them blend into the surrounding depths but when seen from below (fish’s-eye view), their lighter undersides blend in with the bright sunlight of the surface. Of course, as you can see in the unit poster, many different kinds of animals, familiar animals, also use countershading as a way to reduce their visibility. But don’t get the idea that this is accomplished in a conscious manner – evolution has taken care of this survival “strategy” quite nicely. Any animals that blend in better than their neighbors are less likely to be eaten and are therefore more likely to reproduce and pass on their own “blending in” genes.
Activities
Science – Camouflage Game
Objectives: Better sense of value of blending in
Materials: Online access
We’ve been discussing countershading but this is just one of the kinds of camouflage that animals use to survive. This game should be fun to use and educational for you all. Some of the activities will require more “advanced” technical abilities of your computer.
Camouflage Game
Key Concepts
Structures and Functions, Predator/Prey Relationships, Adaptations and Diversity
Questions
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