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Pollen Feeding and Reproductive Biology of Heliconius Butterflies

Lawrence E. Gilbert
PNAS June 1, 1972 69 (6) 1403-1407; https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.69.6.1403
Lawrence E. Gilbert
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Abstract

Butterflies of the neotropical Genus Heliconius feed on pollen. This is the first known instance in butterflies of a habit that is well known for other insects. The butterflies remove amino acids and proteins from pollen; this feeding innovation plays a role in the reproductive and population biology of these insects. It is suggested that other animals may use pollen in a similar fashion.

  • fat body
  • nitrogenous compounds
  • reproductive strategy
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Pollen Feeding and Reproductive Biology of Heliconius Butterflies
Lawrence E. Gilbert
Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences Jun 1972, 69 (6) 1403-1407; DOI: 10.1073/pnas.69.6.1403

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Pollen Feeding and Reproductive Biology of Heliconius Butterflies
Lawrence E. Gilbert
Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences Jun 1972, 69 (6) 1403-1407; DOI: 10.1073/pnas.69.6.1403
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