The development and evolution of butterfly wing patterns

Integrating the results of comparative morphology, experiments on pattern development, the genetics of color patterns, and theoretical modeling of pattern formation, Nijhout shows that the enormous diversity of natural patterns arises largely from quantitative variations in a small set of readily understandable generating rules. Annotation Published: March 2014.

Nijhout's unique book examines the underlying genetic, developmental, and evolutionary processes that account for the tremendous diversity found in butterfly wing patterns. The opening chapter describes the structure and basic development of wings and their venation. It also includes a discussion of structural colors and pigments. The next section explains how even complicated patterns can be reduced to a small number of common elements that form a system of homologies based upon the pattern found in the brush-footed butterflies (Family Nymphalidae). Later chapters compare morphological patterns found among different taxonomic groups, the use of experimental manipulations to identify underlying developmental mechanisms, the genetic basis of color patterns, the evolutionary basis of mimicry and seasonal polyphenotypisms, and the development of a model for color pattern formation. This reasonably priced volume is well illustrated with color and black-and-white photographs, and line drawings. Its usefulness is enhanced by its index and detailed table of contents. All college and university libraries should have this fascinating book. R.E. Lee Jr. Miami University--Choice Reviews.

Butterfly wing color patterns may indicate sex or distastefulness, may mimic other organisms, may act as camouflage, or they may confuse predators. Most species may be identified by their color patterns alone. Furthermore, the dorsal and ventral patterns may be very different and each has evolved separately. These patterns are not random but are homologous units which can be identified in all species. The patterns are permutations of the nymphalid ground plan. This book describes the elucidation of these homologies based on comparative morphology, genetics, and theoretical modelling. The book is supplemented by line-drawings, diagrams, photographs, charts, tables, graphs, three appendices: "Classification and systematics of the Butterflies", "Higher Classification of the Nymphalidae", and a list of genera in the figures in chapter 2 ("Pattern Elements and Homologies"), a bibliography and an index.--BIOSIS.