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If a butterfly flaps its wings, will a hurricane suddenly materialize?
Until recently, South America was considered another exception.
Yet, Talavera had heard of some supposedly popping up in French Guiana.
Photo: Nowhereman/Depositphotos
Being an expert in insect migration, he went to investigate.
V. carduiare known to be migratory.
Photo: Adogslifephoto/Depositphotos
First, the team checked that the butterflies really did come from Africa.
Photo: Adogslifephoto/Depositphotos
Two species,Guiera senegalensisandZiziphus spina-christi, only flower in West Africa towards the end of its rainy season.
They then confirmed all of the butterflies were from the same location via isotope testing.
Turns out the butterflies had not been born in Africa though.
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In total, the scientists believe the butterflies spanned 4,300 miles in less than a month.
While many insects migrate long distances, these butterflies rival the longest documented migratory routes.
Its also probable that this is the first recorded instance of an insect crossing the Atlantic themselves.
How did they accomplish this feat?
Thanks to first-of-its-kind wind analysis, Talavera and his team believe the butterflies were helped along by Saharan winds.
Photo: Wirestock/Depositphotos
The scientists published their findings in theNature Communicationsjournal last month.
The breakthrough is also well timed as scientists believe global warming will contribute to drastic changes in migration paths.
We demonstrate a transatlantic flight for Vanessa cardui butterflies.
An incredible feat for insects!
The discovery of such extreme trans-oceanic journey have significant implications for insect ecology, physiology, and historical biogeography.
