noun
rod cell
Anatomical term for the photoreceptor cells in the retina responsible for vision in low light. Often contrasted with 錐状体 (cone cells).
See also: 錐状体
桿状体は暗い場所での視覚に関与している。
Rod cells are involved in vision in dark places.
網膜には桿状体と錐状体がある。
The retina contains rod cells and cone cells.
錐状体 refers to cone cells, which are responsible for color vision and function in bright light, while 桿状体 are rod cells for low-light vision.
Compound of 桿 (かん, 'rod') + 状 (じょう, 'shape') + 体 (たい, 'body'), literally 'rod-shaped body'. The kanji 桿 is used for rod-like structures in anatomy.