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Biology

The Function of Ultraviolet Reflectance in Butterfly Wing Coloration

Quick fact

Many butterflies have wing patterns that reflect UV light, creating distinct signals that only they and other UV-sensitive animals can see; these patterns are often crucial for mate recognition and courtship.

Why this is interesting

You might think a butterfly's wings are just colorful, but many species have patterns invisible to our eyes—patterns that only appear under ultraviolet light. What could be the purpose of these hidden signals?