This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies. Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Blue morpho butterflies have captivated the human eye for centuries. We even have one as an emoji on our phones.
In a recent experiment, researchers at the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute (STRI) documented for the first time that hot temperatures during development can reduce the brightness of their iridescence. At hot temperatures, such as those projected in future warming scenarios, the structures responsible for their iridescent color could change enough that common bird predators and other butterflies of the same species would likely see a color change. Scientists reported their results in a recent publication in the journal PNAS Nexus.
Scientists exposed Morpho helenor pupae, the stage of metamorphosis before adulthood, to three different temperature categories: average tropical temperatures, in which these butterflies normally live; temperate temperatures, simulating temperatures in temperate zones; and hot temperatures, such as those predicted by climate change. Consistent with other studies, they found that temperate and hot temperatures extended the time the butterflies spent as pupae. Moreover, pupae died more often at hot temperatures.
They also found that adult morpho butterflies whose pupae were exposed to hot temperatures were duller and that common bird predators and butterflies of the same species could detect a color change. The effects of this color change on predators or possible partners are still unknown. As iridescence might confuse predators, duller or color-altered butterflies might be more susceptible to predation or less attractive to possible mates.
"Here we show that iridescent animals are susceptible to the environmental conditions in which they develop. Under a warming climate, the color of some of our favorite iridescent animals can be altered, and the brightness of their iridescent display can become duller," explained lead author and STRI fellow Juliette Rubin. The blue iridescent color we see in morpho butterflies doesn't come from pigments.
It comes from tiny ridged structures on the scales of their wings called nanostructures. The blue color we see is a product of how light is reflected by these microscopic structures. "The scales on these butterflies are like tiles overlapping on a roof.
Extract — continue reading at the source.
