Much of the interest in the biological effects of ultraviolet radiation arises from the fact that different wavelengths are absorbed selectively by different chemical groups. The possibility exists, therefore, of gaining some clues as to the cellular constituents that absorb the ultraviolet radiation leading to a particular effect by comparing the efficiency of different wavelengths in producin...

We report on the first case in which sequestered secondary plant compounds determine an insect's external appearance in the ultraviolet spectrum and thereby influence visually mediated mate choice. Larvae of the common blue butterfly Polyommatus icarus specifically sequester flavonoids in different amounts and types, depending on the part or species of food plant. During late pupal development ...