Science With a Twist: Butterfly Colors In Black & White (And Other Colors Too!)
Why do some butterflies turn out darker than others — and what does that have to do with the weather? Dr. Andrew Stoehr studies how temperature shapes wing color and pattern in butterflies, from cabbage whites in Indiana fields to specimens shipped in from Russia, New Zealand, and beyond. Join us for an evening of casual science and conversation as he shares what wings can tell us about a changing climate.
What to Expect: Science With A Twist (SWAT) is a casual science and networking event hosted by the Indiana Academy of Science. These events bring together scientists, educators, engineers, students, and community members for informal conversations about science in a relaxed setting. Talks are short and accessible—no scientific background required, just curiosity!
About the Speaker: Dr. Andrew Stoehr grew up in Indianapolis, Indiana and graduated from Indiana University with a degree in biology. He completed a master’s degree at Auburn University, studying coloration, hormones, and behavior in House Finches. He completed his PhD at the University of California-Riverside, where he studied coloration, behavior, and ecological immunity in cabbage white butterflies. His post-doctoral work at Yale University explored the evolutionary developmental genetics of butterfly wing coloration. Since 2012 he has been a professor in the Department of Biological Sciences at Butler University where he continues to study coloration in butterflies and other insects. He has recently started work on prairie ecology as well.
Photo Credit: Butler University