Science identifies Genes that shift butterfly wing colors

Cornell researchers have identified three genes responsible for changing the color of common buckeye butterfly wings, depending on what time of year the egg hatches and larvae develop.

If the larvae develop early in the year, when days are shorter and colder, the butterflies (Junonia coenia) reach maturity in summer with tan wings. But if larvae develop later in the year, when days are longer and warmer, the butterflies mature in fall with reddish wings.

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Adam Skowronski
Adam Skowronski