Nanotechnology in nature: the evolutionary significance of iridescent ultraviolet colouration in butterflies

纳米结构颜色是一种新颖而有趣的生物现象，在纺织和涂料工业中具有潜在的应用前景。这项研究有可能揭示与未来基因操作和/或工业人工合成该性状相关的知识。基本利益将包括促进我们对进化和生物多样性的理解，增强澳大利亚的研究形象，以及培养新的科学专业知识。该提案还承诺通过与美国和英国的大学建立合作关系，使澳大利亚科学界受益，并提高主流对澳大利亚令人惊叹的自然资源的认识。

Nanostructural colour is a novel and interesting biological phenomenon that has potential application in textile and paint industries. This research has the potential to uncover knowledge relevant to future genetic manipulation and/or artificial synthesis of this trait for industry. Fundamental benefits will include a contribution to our understanding of evolution and biological diversity, enhancement of Australia's research profile, and the cultivation of new scientific expertise. This proposal also promises to benefit the Australian scientific community through the establishment of collaborative links with universities in the USA and UK, and to increase mainstream awareness of Australia's stunning natural resources.