Colour Pattern of Butterflies (Insecta: Lepidoptera): A Review

Colour plays an important role in nature. Lepidoptera, with an estimated 160,000 recognized species, is one of the two or three most significant orders of insects. These insects are known for their tremendous range of color patterns, which are caused by the flattened and modified hairs called scales that cover the body and wings in a shingle-like arrangement. A unique color pigment and a distinct shape are present in every scale, which is a modified sensory bristle. Within a clearly defined network of wing veins, scales are arranged in rows. When groups of scales are designed to create specific color pigments, pattern growth starts, in the most basic manner.