Insect Pigments
Insect pigments are natural colorants found in various species of insects. These pigments play a crucial role in their survival, helping with camouflage, mating, and warning predators. Common types of pigments include melanins, which provide dark colors, and carotenoids, which produce bright yellows and reds.
Insects can also produce structural colors through microscopic structures that reflect light, creating iridescent effects. This phenomenon is seen in species like butterflies and beetles. Understanding insect pigments can provide insights into evolutionary biology and potential applications in materials science and art.