There are more than 18,000 named butterfly species on the planet today, and about 140,000 different moth species. All of them evolved from a common ancestor that lived more than 225 million years ago.

Scientists have found a new way to see how butterflies develop their colors. Butterflies use color for a number of important functions, including as signals for mate-choice or to ward off predators.

There are many butterfly and moth species that have developed what appear to be extra eyes. These distinct wing markings are often referred to as eyespots, false eyes or false eyespots and come in a ...

More information: Victoria J. Lloyd et al, The actin cytoskeleton plays multiple roles in structural color formation in ...