Discover the fascinating world of dragonflies through this stunning infrared-spectrum image showcasing a Tramea species. The lighter hues represent higher temperatures, ranging from 27 to 35 degrees Celsius in this captivating visual masterpiece captured by Noah Leith.
Temperature plays a crucial role in determining where species thrive and how they cope with climate change challenges. While biologists have extensively studied heat tolerance’s impact on survival, its influence on reproduction remains a lesser-known aspect directly tied to extinction risks.
A recent study by US researchers delves into whether male dragonflies sporting dark wing coloration as sexual signals exhibit greater heat resistance. Their findings, published in Frontiers in Ethology, shed light on this intriguing correlation.
“Our research reveals that dragonfly species adorned with dark wing patterns for mating purposes have also developed enhanced heat tolerance,” explained Dr. Noah Leith from the University of Pittsburgh. “This breakthrough opens up new avenues for exploring the intricate interplay between thermal traits and sexual displays.”
In the realm of dragonflies and various animals, sexual signals aid in mate location, species identification for mating compatibility, and decision-making during mating rituals.
However, sporting elaborate dark wing patterns comes at a price as these ornaments absorb excess heat, elevating body temperatures among dragonflies. This thermal stress may lead to physiological strain or males abandoning their reproductive territories.
“Time after time, we witness animals risking their lives for reproduction purposes even when faced with potentially lethal temperatures,” noted Leith.
2024-10-10 01:15:03
Link from phys.org