The term "visible light" refers specifically to the band of electromagnetic radiation that is visible to the human eye. This band of light has wavelengths ranging from approximately 400 to 700 nanometers and includes the colors of the rainbow: red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, and violet.
While it is true that many lifeforms can perceive different and larger spectrums of light, the terminology "visible light" is used to distinguish it from other forms of electromagnetic radiation that humans cannot see, such as ultraviolet (UV) radiation, infrared (IR) radiation, X-rays, and radio waves.
Different species have evolved to perceive and interpret light differently based on their specific needs and environmental conditions. For example, some birds and insects can see ultraviolet light, which is invisible to humans. Bees, for instance, have receptors that enable them to detect ultraviolet patterns on flowers, helping them locate nectar. Similarly, snakes possess specialized organs that allow them to sense infrared radiation, which helps them detect prey and navigate in their environment.
The human eye has its limitations and can only detect a narrow range of wavelengths, leading to the commonly used term "visible light" to describe the specific range of light that is visible to humans.