SELECTIVE UV-INDUCED DAMAGE TO SHORT-WAVELENGTH RECEPTOR-CELLS IN THEBUTTERFLY PAPILIO-XUTHUS

A technique that allows the specific inactivation of short-wavelength- sensitive photoreceptive cells has been needed for a long time. Such a technique could be useful in studies on the role(s) of UV-receptors i n circadian rhythmicity, recognition of floral patterns, homing behavi our, and male selection in arthropods, We provide ultrastructural evid ence that short-wavelength receptor cells can be selectively damaged w ithout affecting other spectral-cell types; Since the method does not require the killing of the experimental animal, the latter can be used in behavioural or other follow-up tests.