For caterpillars, diet is destiny
Study by researchers at UCI and Wesleyan show picky eaters with limited palates hide better from birds
Study by researchers at UCI and Wesleyan show picky eaters with limited palates hide better from birds
UC Irvine and Wesleyan University biologists have learned that caterpillars that feed on one or two plant species are better able to hide from predatory birds than caterpillars that consume a wide variety of plants.
International genetic consortium finds butterflies also use taste and smell genes to increase their chances of living longer.
UCI and Wesleyan researchers have found that birds target tree species favored by caterpillars as well as the insects.