Background Flower coloration is a key enabler for pollinator attraction. Floral visual signals
comprise several components that are generated by specific anatomical structures and …

The ability to control light at the nanoscale is at the basis of contemporary photonics and
plasmonics. In particular, properly engineered periodic nanostructures not only allow the …

The coloration of flowers is due to the wavelength-selective absorption by pigments of light
backscattered by structures inside the petals. We investigated the optical properties of …

Competition for pollinators occurs when, in a community of flowering plants, several
simultaneously flowering plant species depend on the same pollinator. Competition for …

Signals reliably convey information to a receiver. To be reliable, differences between
individuals in signal properties must be consistent and easily perceived and evaluated by …

Several living organisms are able to synthesize complex nanostructures provided with
peculiar physical and chemical properties by means of finely-tuned, genetically controlled …

Buttercup (Ranunculus spp.) flowers are exceptional because they feature a distinct gloss
(mirror-like reflection) in addition to their matte-yellow coloration. We investigated the optical …

Iridescence is a form of structural coloration, produced by a range of structures, in which hue
is dependent on viewing angle [1–4]. One of these structures, the diffraction grating, is found …

For most angiosperms, flowers are critical to reproduction because they increase rates of
outcrossing. Flowers are highly variable in numerous traits, including size, shape, and color …

The most vibrant and striking colours in living organisms are often caused by a combination
of pigments and nano-scale transparent architectures, which interact with light to produce so …