In nature, colours are everywhere! Insects, birds, and mammals—all of them have vibrant colours and patterns on their bodies, which not only make them look pretty but play a role in behaviour and survival. Some use their kaleidoscopic looks to attract mates and stand out from their background; others prefer a dull look to blend into their surroundings and hide from predators. In some insects, like a few damselflies, males and females are differently coloured. Since the males mostly initiate mating in these insects, this difference in colours helps them to find a mate. A new study has now explored how colours impact the mating behaviour of a species of damselfly, Agriocnemis pygmaea.

A colourful platter never fails to stimulate your appetite, right? The moment your eyes sense so many dishes laid out beautifully, the stomach starts to growl, and you want to grab a bite! But, you owe most of the food that you eat to insects that pollinate the grains, vegetables and fruits, thus ensuring there is food for all. Have you ever thought how these insects, which feed us, find their food? How do they decide which flower to forage? Do they also look for colours like us?