Educator Guide: Parrot Pigmentation and Bat Metabolism

Learn how scientists use vampire bats' unusual locomotion to investigate mysteries of their blood-based metabolism. Then, answer questions about this study’s experimental design and discuss how chemical analysis data can support conclusions and answer scientific questions.

Scientists have discovered an enzyme that helps oxidize the pigment aldehyde psittacofulvin, which colors parrot feathers red, to carboxyl psittacofulvin, a yellow pigment. After reviewing the basics of molecular structure and bonding, use this activity to introduce functional groups to students before having the students describe how different pigments might create the feather colors in a photo of a parrot. Finally, discuss the importance of understanding properties and reactivity of functional groups.