(Carnegie Science)

From naturalists to collectors, appreciation for the beautiful colors and patterns of butterfly wings is widespread. But did you know that one of the underlying functions for these stunning visuals is to protect butterflies from birds and other predators? Butterflies have evolved a variety of fascinating adaptations that help them blend into their surroundings. Some use a phenomenon called structural coloration to create a green appearance that blends in with surrounding vegetation. Others play tricks with the laws of physics to gain transparency. In this presentation, Marine Biological Laboratory Director Nipam Patel will explore how advances in cell biology, genetics, and microscopy are allowing scientists like him to understand these remarkable feats of camouflage.