A new study has revealed that a species of velvet ant found in Brazil has markings so dark that they absorb nearly all visible light. The species, known as Traumatomutilla bifurca, is actually a wingless wasp known for its fluffy body. Researchers studying color production in insects discovered that the cuticle of this velvet ant has a unique structure.
Beneath the fluffy exterior lies an arrangement of stacked platelets resembling an accordion’s middle section. This structural arrangement is key to producing the ultrablack color, a pigment that reflects very little light. The team found that the ultrablack cuticle of the female velvet ant not only absorbs visible light but also ultraviolet light.
This trait is relatively rare in the animal world but has been observed in some spiders and butterflies. The velvet ant’s coloration is less reflective than that of the common birdwing butterfly (Troides helena).
Ultrablack coloration in velvet ant
Dr. Rhainer Guillermo-Ferreira, a study author, said, “In nature, you see a lot of different patterns of coloration, and we don’t really know why. But every time we study velvet ants, they give us some new, interesting results.”
The evolution of ultrablack in animals has led to several theories.
Some believe it aids in thermoregulation or helps highlight other colors to attract mates. In velvet ants, it is thought to deter predators and may also play a role in camouflage and protection against solar radiation. Velvet ants are often referred to as “indestructible insects” due to their hard exoskeletons and their ability to produce loud sounds when threatened.
The study suggests that the structure producing the ultrablack coloration may also contribute to the exoskeleton’s strength and resilience. This study adds to our understanding of the complex mechanisms behind insect coloration and has been published in a scientific journal. Ultrablack coloration is found in only a few species and has intrigued scientists due to its potential applications in camouflage and solar energy.
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