Asymmetrical colour and wing-folding in Tithrone roseipennis (Saussure 1870) a neotropical praying mantis (Mantodea Hymenopodidae)

Barabás, S.P. and Hancock, E.G. (1999) Asymmetrical colour and wing-folding in Tithrone roseipennis (Saussure 1870) a neotropical praying mantis (Mantodea Hymenopodidae). Tropical Zoology, 12(2), pp. 325-334. (doi: 10.1080/03946975.1999.10539398)

Full text not currently available from Enlighten.

Abstract

The frequency and type of forewing colour asymmetry present in Tithrone roseipennis (Saussure 1870) (Mantodea Hymenopodidae) was examined and 29 out of 35 specimens had red/green forewing colour asymmetry. The insects, from both field-collected material and museum specimens, contained both left and right fore wing asymmetry morphs. This colour asymmetry was found to be linked to wing-folding. Asymmetrical mantids always appeared cryptically green at rest, decreasing the chance of predator detection. It is suggested that red and green colour pigments are genetically encoded for, and genetic epistatic interactions result between forewing colouration and wing folding mechanisms. The forewing colouration of T. roseipennis is an example of antisymmetry.

Item Type:Articles
Status:Published
Refereed:Yes
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID:Hancock, Mr Geoff
Authors: Barabás, S.P., and Hancock, E.G.
College/School:College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Biodiversity, One Health & Veterinary Medicine
Journal Name:Tropical Zoology
Publisher:Taylor and Francis
ISSN:0394-6975
ISSN (Online):1970-9528

University Staff: Request a correction | Enlighten Editors: Update this record