The UV patterns on shells generally resemble the visible-light color
patterns in geometry, suggesting that the same pigments are
responsible for both. UV patterns might thus be a side effect of
pigmentaiton for other purposes, unlike the presence of uniquely UV
patterns in butterflies, birds, flowers, etc.
Sometimes faded patterns are still visible under UV light.
Well-preserved fossils often show UV color patters though none are
evident under visible light.
--
Dr. David Campbell
425 Scientific Collections
University of Alabama
"I think of my happy condition, surrounded by acres of clams"
----------------------------------------------------------------------
[log in to unmask] - a forum for informal discussions on molluscs
To leave this list, click on the following web link:
http://listserv.uga.edu/cgi-bin/wa?SUBED1=conch-l&A=1
Type your email address and name in the appropriate box and
click leave the list.
----------------------------------------------------------------------