Hidden Eyespot Reveals New Facets of Sexual Selection in Bicyclus Butterflies
A new study illustrates how ventral forewing patterns in Bicyclus anynana butterflies are used in sexual communication. Though the patterns are often hidden by hindwings when at rest, the study found the white, UV-reflecting eyespots to be a signal used by females to attract males.
How Butterflies Pattern Top and Bottom Wing Surfaces Differently
Researchers at the National University of Singapore have identified the gene transcription factors in butterflies that give rise to their different color patterns on the top and bottom sides of their wings.
Hormones Control Eyespot Size in the Butterfly Bicyclus anynana
Male and female Bicyclus butterflies have different levels of the hormone ecdysone, which regulates their different-sized eyespots.
How Flashy Wings, UV Light, and Seasons All Play a Role in One Butterfly Species’ Mating Rituals
By Edward Ricciuti Males of an African butterfly, with the improbable nickname of “squinting bush brown,” are the Lepidopteran version of chick magnets—if their generation of caterpillars chills out while […]