Final answer:
Rods are photoreceptors in the retina that allow for vision in very dark environments, peripheral vision, and motion detection. They have a high degree of light sensitivity but do not provide color vision.
Step-by-step explanation:
The photoreceptors known as rods are essential for our ability to see in low light conditions. They provide us with night vision, are crucial for detecting peripheral movement, and allow us to perceive various shades of gray when it's dark. Unlike cones, which are responsible for color vision and detailed central vision, rods have a high degree of light sensitivity and do not enable us to see color. Therefore, rods allow for vision in very dark environments and for seeing motion.