Morpho (IMAGE)

Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute

Morpho

Caption

The iridescent blue color we see in Morpho butterflies is a consequence of how the light is reflected on the very tiny structures that form their wing scales, which are like tiles overlapped on a roof.

Credit

Connor Evans-Blake

Usage Restrictions

Credit must be given to the creator.

License

CC BY

Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.