The vivid wing patterns of butterflies, once attributed to a gene, are now traced to an overlooked microRNA.

The Science of Deception The fruit-sucking moth’s wings are a marvel of evolutionary engineering. Unlike many other insects that rely on pigments for coloration, this moth uses structural ...

Butterfly and moth wings can be stunningly beautiful. More importantly, some have colourful and elaborate patterns that serve as a defence against hungry predators. There are many butterfly and moth ...

Or the chocolate moth, which is dark brown with light, coloured stripes and a delicate lacy pattern on the edges of its wings. Check out our gallery to see more magical-looking moths! Butterflies ...

Butterflies and moths are masters of disguise, able to copy animal faces, rolled-up leaves and even snakes. Welcome to the kaleidoscopic world of the butterfly wing. How do butterflies and moths ...

They found the moth mimics the 3D shape and coloration of a leaf using specialised nanostructures on its wings. "These nanostructures create a shiny wing surface that mimics the highlights found ...

"These nanostructures create a shiny wing surface that mimics the highlights ... coloration produces a leaf-like brown color, with the moth exploiting thin-film reflectors to produce directional ...