Genetic switch in UV response of mimicry-related pale-yellow colors in Batesian mimic butterfly, <i>Papilio polytes</i>
Shinichi Yoda, Kousuke Sakakura, Tasuku Kitamura, Yusuke Kondo, Kazuki Sato, Ryosuke Ohnuki, Itsuki Someya, Shinya Komata, Tetsuya Kojima, Shinya Yoshioka, Haruhiko Fujiwara
Abstract
switched the pale-yellow colors from UV-excited fluorescent type (nonmimetic) to UV-reflecting type (mimetic), by repressing the papiliochrome II synthesis genes and nanostructural changes in wing scales. Photoreceptor reactivities showed that some birds and butterflies could effectively recognize mimetic and nonmimetic pale-yellow colors, suggesting that a genetic switch in the UV response of pale-yellow colors may play essential roles in establishing the dimorphic female-limited Batesian mimicry.
Topics & Concepts
Batesian mimicryMimicryButterflyBiologyZoologyEcologyLepidoptera: Biology and TaxonomyPlant and animal studiesNeurobiology and Insect Physiology Research