No, hydra do not have eyes.
While hydra lack true eyes, they are surprisingly sensitive to light. This sensitivity allows them to react to changes in illumination, such as contracting when exposed to sudden bright light.
Researchers have discovered that hydra possess light-sensitive proteins remarkably similar to those found in the eyes of other animals, including humans. These proteins enable hydra to "see" light, despite their absence of dedicated visual organs. This highlights an interesting evolutionary aspect of light sensitivity predating the development of complex eyes.
Here's a summary in a table:
| Feature | Hydra |
|---|---|
| Eyes | No |
| Light Sensitivity | Yes |
| Light-sensitive Proteins | Present (similar to those in eyes) |
| Reaction to Light | Contracts into a ball |
