The pigmented area in the center of the retina is called the macula or macula lutea. It is an oval-shaped, yellow-pigmented region responsible for sharp central vision, color vision, and seeing fine details. The macula contains a high concentration of cone photoreceptor cells that allow for high-resolution and color vision. The yellow pigmentation comes from pigments like lutein and zeaxanthin that help protect the retina from blue light damage.
Macula Structure and Function
- The macula is about 5.5 mm in diameter and located near the center of the retina.
- It is subdivided into smaller regions including the fovea, which is a pit with the highest density of cone cells.
- The yellow pigmentation mainly arises from carotenoid pigments concentrated in the macula.
- It is essential for detailed tasks such as reading and recognizing faces.
Retinal Pigmentation
- The pigmented layer of the retina, called the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE), lies beneath the photoreceptors and contains melanin pigment.
- The RPE supports and nourishes retinal visual cells and protects them from light damage by absorbing excess light.
In summary, the pigmented area in the center of the retina is the macula lutea, which is critical for central, high-acuity, and color vision, supported by pigmented cells that help protect and maintain retinal health.
