Two ants are packed on the wings of this fruit fly of the Goniurellia tridens species. So how could such a perfect shape have come into being?
Shapes on living things in the evolutionary process It was formed for various reasons, and even in this process spanning millions of years, the patterns on some species resembled objects such as eyes and flowers.
It is a genus of Goniurellia of the family Tephritidae. fruit flies The patterns on its transparent wings are one of the most striking examples of evolution in this regard.
Known since 1910, this species is often found in the Near and Middle East, Europe and Asia.
These flies, which live in a wide variety of habitats, are often found in meadows and urban gardens. Average adults 3-4mm long, so it’s a pretty small species.
How could the ant-like insect shape on a fly’s wings have emerged?
This is where evolution comes into play. Although the exact cause is unknown a defense mechanism against predators It is expected to be developed. They may seem more frightening than opening their wings when they perceive a threat, so they can confuse the predators.
Since those with this shape will be more likely to survive for generations, in the next generations It is thought to have this shape. This shape is not found in every member of the species. In some, even a spider shape can appear.
This defense mechanism can also make the fly attractive to potential mates.
This aesthetically pleasing wing design is combined with a mating dance. attractive to females it could be. The more realistic the picture on the wing, the greater the chances of survival and reproduction. Thus, this unique trait will be passed on from generation to generation.
The eye-like shapes on the wings of butterflies are the result of a similar mechanism.
on your wings owl eye shape Some butterfly species, which can instantly scare away their predators, are among the most well-known of such adaptations.
So why don’t these types of shapes appear in all genres?
These features do not emerge suddenly, but over a period of millions of years. as well as the genetic distribution of each population influencing factors are very different from each other. Therefore, different responses to similar problems may occur.
Next time you complain about tiny bugs flying around your apartment, don’t treat them as pests. evolutionary art see as.
Sources: 1, 2, 3, 4
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