Tiger swallowtail genome gives clues to insect’s stinky defense
As caterpillars, Eastern tiger swallowtails have a forked organ on their heads that emits smelly compounds to deter predators. A look at the insect’s genome explains how it may have evolved this stinky biological warfare.
Edith Smith/Shady Oak Butterfly Farm
As caterpillars, swallowtails have a forked organ on their heads that pumps out foul-smelling compounds called terpenes. Sequencing the swallowtail genome revealed extra copies of the genes that the scientists believe are responsible for making enzymes that assemble terpenes.
This and other insights into swallowtail genetics appear February 12 in Cell Reports.
