Unusual coloration in scarabaeid beetles

Publication Type:Journal Article
Year of Publication:2007
Authors:D. J. Brink, van der Berg, N. G., Prinsloo, L. C., Hodgkinson, I. J.
Journal:Journal of Physics D: Applied Physics
Volume:40
Pagination:2189-2196
Abstract:

In this paper we investigate the reflection of circularly polarized light from the exocuticle of the scarabaeid beetle Gymnopleurus virens. Reflection spectra are deeply modulated, exhibiting a number of relatively narrow well-defined peaks, which differ from previously studied specimens. By comparing model calculations and electron microscopy work with the recorded spectra, we can propose the presenceofspecificstructuraldefectsresponsible for the unusual spectra.

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