Pachyrhynchus Weevils Use 3D Photonic Crystals with Varying Degrees of Order to Create Diverse and Brilliant Displays. Issue 20 (15th April 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Parisotto, Alessandro; Steiner, Ullrich; Cabras, Analyn Anzano; Van Dam, Matthew H.; Wilts, Bodo D.
• Is Part Of: Small. Volume 18:Issue 20(2022)
• Page Start: n/a
• Page End: n/a
• Publication Date: 2022-04-15
• Subjects: biodiversity -- biophotonics -- color traits -- diamond photonic crystals -- order and disorder; Nanotechnology -- Periodicals; Nanoparticles -- Periodicals; Microtechnology -- Periodicals; 620.5
• DOI: 10.1002/smll.202200592
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1613-6810

Abstract

Abstract: The brilliant appearance of Easter Egg weevils, genus Pachyrhynchus (Coleoptera, Curculionidae), originates from complex dielectric nanostructures within their elytral scales and elytra. Previous work, investigating singular members of the Pachyrhynchus showed the presence of either quasi‐ordered or ordered 3D photonic crystals based on the single diamond ( F d 3 ¯ m ) symmetry in their scales. However, little is known about the diversity of the structural coloration mechanisms within the family. Here, the optical properties within Pachyrhynchus are investigated by systematically identifying their spectral and structural characteristics. Four principal traits that vary their appearance are identified and the evolutionary history of these traits to identify ecological trends are reconstructed. The results indicate that the coloration mechanisms across the Easter Egg weevils are diverse and highly plastic across closely related species with features appearing at multiple independent times across their phylogeny. This work lays a foundation for a better understanding of the various forms of quasi‐ordered and ordered diamond photonic crystal within arthropods. Abstract : 3D photonic materials of varying order form the basis of the beautiful displays of many insects. This study characterises the ultrastructures and optical properties of the elytral scales found in a wide array of different Easter Egg weevils. The various mechanisms with which the species changes its colorful appearance are highlighted and linked to the species‐level phylogeny.