BIRDS-OF-BIOFLUORESCENCE.
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| Title: | BIRDS-OF-BIOFLUORESCENCE. |
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| Authors: | COTTIER, CODY (AUTHOR) |
| Source: | Discover. Summer2026, Vol. 47 Issue 3, p16-17. 2p. 2 Color Photographs. |
| Subjects: | Biofluorescence, Sexual selection, Color of birds, Courtship, Life (Biology), Indonesians |
| Geographic Terms: | Australia |
| Abstract: | The article focuses on the discovery that birds-of-paradise, native to Australia, Indonesia, and New Guinea, exhibit biofluorescence—emitting bright yellow-green light from their skin and feathers by absorbing and re-emitting light at different wavelengths. This trait, found in 37 of the 45 species studied, likely evolved through sexual selection to enhance mating displays, complementing their already vivid colors and "super black" feathers that create striking visual contrasts. While biofluorescence is more prominent in males and thought to signal attractiveness to choosy females, researchers have yet to confirm its direct impact on female behavior. Ongoing studies aim to experimentally test this by observing mating success under controlled lighting conditions. [Extracted from the article] |
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| Database: | Engineering Source |
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| Abstract: | The article focuses on the discovery that birds-of-paradise, native to Australia, Indonesia, and New Guinea, exhibit biofluorescence—emitting bright yellow-green light from their skin and feathers by absorbing and re-emitting light at different wavelengths. This trait, found in 37 of the 45 species studied, likely evolved through sexual selection to enhance mating displays, complementing their already vivid colors and "super black" feathers that create striking visual contrasts. While biofluorescence is more prominent in males and thought to signal attractiveness to choosy females, researchers have yet to confirm its direct impact on female behavior. Ongoing studies aim to experimentally test this by observing mating success under controlled lighting conditions. [Extracted from the article] |
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| ISSN: | 02747529 |
