Metallic Alien Insects Ready to Invade Earth

Just kidding. It's actually the chrysalis of the Orange-spotted tiger clearwing (Mechanitis polymnia), as spotted by rubens.luciano on Project Noah: Link


Newest 3
Newest 3 Comments

The shell is made from layers and layers of the polymer chitin, each with progressively thinner depth, thus resulting in different refractive indices. Light is refracted through and reflected by each layer, resulting in phase difference in the reflected rays and thus the metallic appearance.
Abusive comment hidden. (Show it anyway.)
Login to comment.




Email This Post to a Friend
"Metallic Alien Insects Ready to Invade Earth"

Separate multiple emails with a comma. Limit 5.

 

Success! Your email has been sent!

close window
X

This website uses cookies.

This website uses cookies to improve user experience. By using this website you consent to all cookies in accordance with our Privacy Policy.

I agree
 
Learn More