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The role of carotenoids in the “golden glance” of danaid pupae (Insecta: Lepidoptera)
Author(s) -
Rothschild Miriam,
Gardiner Brian,
Mummery Rosemary
Publication year - 1978
Publication title -
journal of zoology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.915
H-Index - 96
eISSN - 1469-7998
pISSN - 0952-8369
DOI - 10.1111/j.1469-7998.1978.tb03924.x
Subject(s) - biology , pupa , carotenoid , lepidoptera genitalia , white (mutation) , larva , lutein , botany , zoology , genetics , gene
Silver replaces the golden areas of danaid pupae if the larvae are reared on a carotenoid‐free diet. These pigments are therefore responsible for the yellow colouring of the “golden glance”. Lutein is the dominant carotenoid present in pupal exuviae. In response to light cues, these pigments can be re‐routed into deeper tissues, thus pupae of Euploea core become silver instead of gold if reared against a dull white background.