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Can we or anything alive see without light?

Asked by Zone36 (416points) August 24th, 2010

Let’s say you’re in a cave a mile into the earth. You have no light source and there are no light sources at all around you.

Would you be able to even see something an inch from your face?
I’m assuming no because you would need at least a tiny bit of light so whatever is reflected into your eyes.

I’m more curious about nocturnal creatures. Putting aside their sonar like abilities; would things like bats, cats or other creatures who’s eyes are designed to be able to take in even the most minute amounts of light be able to see anything at all?

Again my assumption is no, but I’d like a more elaborate answer (especially for the eyes of nocturnal animals).

Are there any creatures that actually live in these types of conditions and don’t have eyes because of them?

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