Monthly Archives: February 2012

Living With Passion

Posted on February 23, 2012 by jjneal

by jjneal The Gulf Fritillary, Agraulis vanillae, feeds on vines in the Passion Fruit family, including Passion Fruit vines. Several species of Passiflora vines are cultivated as garden ornamentals in many parts of the Unites States. The Gulf Fritillary has … Continue reading →

Posted in by jjneal, Environment, Invasive Species, Pest Management | Leave a comment

Living With Butterfly Colors

Posted on February 21, 2012 by jjneal

by jjneal Morpho butterflies are a brilliant blue color because they reflect only the blue wavelength light. Longer light wavelengths are scattered. How does this work? The scales on the wings of Morphos have micro ridges that are spaced close … Continue reading →

Posted in Biomaterials, by jjneal | 3 Comments

Living With Lepidoptera Pollinators

Posted on February 21, 2012 by jjneal

Flowers can increase their pollination efficiency by attracting insects that carry their pollen to a nearby flower of the same species. Most flowers act in “good faith”. They reward the insect pollinators with nutrient-containing nectar. One South African orchid, Disa … Continue reading →

Posted in by jjneal, Environment | 1 Comment

Living With Loopers

Posted on February 19, 2012 by jjneal

by jjneal Caterpillars, the immature larval forms of butterflies and moths have several styles of movement. Caterpillars of the family Geometridae are called loopers or inchworms. Loopers move by grasping the surface (usually a branch or stem) with their three … Continue reading →

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Butterflies and Invasive Species

Posted on February 19, 2012 by jjneal

by jjneal Some species of plants brought to North America from other locations become invasive. Invasive species not only establish, but displace many of the native species of plants. Invasive plants can create shade and prevent native plants from getting … Continue reading →

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Friday Caterpillar Blogging: Pathogen Defense

Posted on February 17, 2012 by jjneal

by jjneal Cut open a potato and leave it exposed to the air. The potato will turn from white to brown. This is due to an enzyme, polyphenol oxidase that leads to production of a dark pigment, melanin. Wound a … Continue reading →

Posted in Biomaterials, by jjneal, Caterpillar Blogging, Environment | Leave a comment

Living With Insect Bedding

Posted on February 16, 2012 by jjneal

by jjneal Insects are increasingly popular pets in the US. Insects can be comfortable in a small terrarium, they are inexpensive to feed and do not usually run up large veterinary bills. Terrariums can be maintained with a variety of … Continue reading →

Posted in by jjneal, Education, Environment | 2 Comments