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These butterflies look the same, but DNA uncovered six hidden species


Glasswing butterflies may all look alike, but behind their transparent wings hides an evolutionary story full of intrigue. Researchers discovered that while these butterflies appear nearly identical to avoid predators, they produce unique pheromones to attract suitable mates from their own species. A massive genetic mapping effort has now revealed six new butterfly species and uncovered a surprisingly high level of chromosomal rearrangement that helps explain why these butterflies evolve so rapidly.

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