Patterns of Inheritance

Synopsis

The wings of butterflies display a striking colourful and varied array of patterns, but surprisingly few genetic changes are needed to produce this diversity. Dr John Turner of the University of Leeds shows how using basic rules of genetics he has been able to trace the ancestry of a South American butterfly that has long puzzled lepidopterists. This species not only has different wing patterns in different parts of South America but mimics another species. Such butterflies that look alike, but are from completely different species, can also be produced by experimental manipulation, and Dr Frederick Nijhout of the University of North Carolina explains how it is possible to induce changes of pattern and colour during development.

Series

Genetics, Course S298

Language

English

Country

Great Britain

Medium

Video; Videocassette. Standard formats. col. 25 min.

Year of production

1987

Availability

OUT OF DISTRIBUTION

Subjects

Biology

Keywords

butterflies; colour; genetic variation; natural selection

Credits

Producer

Aileen Llewellyn

Cast

Lesley Judd

Production Company

Name

BBC Open University Productions

Distributor

Name

Open University Worldwide

Web

http://www.ouw.co.uk External site opens in new window

Phone

+44 (0) 1908 274066

Address

Walton Hall
Milton Keynes
MK7 6AA

Notes

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