Antennal Circadian Clocks Coordinate Sun Compass Orientation in Migratory Monarch Butterflies

Sep 26, 2009Science (New York, N.Y.)

Body clocks in butterfly antennae help guide sun-based navigation during migration

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Abstract

Antennae are essential for proper time-compensated Sun compass orientation in migratory monarch butterflies.

  • Monarch butterflies possess clocks in their antennae that contribute to navigation.
  • The circadian clock previously assumed to be in the brain may actually function in the antennae.
  • These findings suggest a new role for antennae in navigation, impacting understanding of orientation in insects.
  • The study opens avenues for further exploration of clock-compass connections in other insect species.

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