Genetics of a "zebra" pigment mutation in the larvae of Danaus plexippus, L. (Nymphalidae: Danainae)

Karen S. Oberhauser, Cansler De Cansler, Ann Feitl

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

2 Scopus citations

Abstract

We report a mutation in monarch butterflies that results in a lack of yellow pigment in larvae, pupae and eggs. Genetic studies reveal that this phenotype is caused by a recessive autosomal allele with normal Mendelian segregation. We did not detect an effect on butterfly size or asymmetry, but mutant individuals of both sexes appear to suffer lower reproductive success than normal individuals. We hypothesize that the mutants are unable to sequester carotenoids from their larval host plants.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)237-244
Number of pages8
JournalJournal of the Lepidopterists' Society
Volume50
Issue number3
StatePublished - Oct 11 1996

Keywords

  • Carotenoids
  • Pigmentation

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