Selective UV-induced damage to short-wavelength receptor cells in the butterfly 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 in circadian rhythmicity, recognition of floral patterns, homing behaviour, and mate selection in arthropods. We provide ultrastructural evidence that short-wavelength receptor cells can be selectively damaged without 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.