What is the name of the clear, gelatinous substance that fills the space between the lens and the retina?

The clear, gelatinous substance that fills the space between the lens and the retina is known as vitreous humor. This gel-like material is crucial for maintaining the eye's shape and providing a pathway for light to reach the retina. Additionally, it helps to support the retina and prevents it from detaching from the back of the eye. The vitreous humor is mostly composed of water but also contains collagen and hyaluronic acid, contributing to its jelly-like consistency.

The aqueous humor is a different fluid that is located in the anterior segment of the eye, between the cornea and the lens, and plays a role in maintaining intraocular pressure. Corneal fluid is not a recognized term within ophthalmology, as corneal health is maintained by tears and the aqueous humor. Subretinal fluid refers to fluid that can accumulate beneath the retina, commonly in the context of certain eye diseases, but does not describe the substance filling the space between the lens and retina. Thus, recognizing the specific role and location of vitreous humor is essential for understanding ocular anatomy and function.