Sharks posses the basic eye
structure that is found in all vertebrates, but with some modification.
The shark eye has a reflecting layer called a tapetum lucidum located behind the
retina. Essentially the structure consists of a layer of parallel,
plate-like cells filled with silver guanine crystals. The crystals reflect
light that has already passed through the retina and redirects it back to
restimulate the retina as it passes out through the eye. This effectively
boosts the visual signal, especially in low light levels giving sharks high
visual acuity.
Another modification found in some sharks is the presence of
a nictitating membrane. This structure is a denticle covered membrane that
protects the eye. It closes when the shark passes close to a objects and
also during biting or feeding.