Thermoregulatory adaptations allowing ecological range expansion by the pierid butterfly, Nathalis iole Boisduval

Call Number:

URL:

Keywords:

Abstract:

In this paper, the authors present evidence that a geographically distinct population of the subtropical butterfly Nathalis iole has evolved a sensitivity to photoperiod. Short-day individuals of Nathalis iole are darker than those of mid-summer in the midwestern 'segregate' (= population). The authors propose that the ability to adapt to seasonal changes in thermal conditions by photoperiodic control of melanin deposition and therefore to maintain sexual activity in temporally and geographically cooler environments is facilitating a northward ecological range expansion by the midwestern 'segregate.'

Notes:

ELECTRONIC FILE - Zoology: Invertebrates