Tiger swallowtail genome gives clues to insect’s stinky defense
![Eastern tiger swallowtail (Papilio glaucus) caterpillar](https://i0.wp.com/www.sciencenews.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/ticker_kb_osmeterium.jpg?fit=860%2C460&ssl=1)
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