New research from the University of Otago has uncovered a striking example of
Professor Jon Waters, a zoology expert and co-author of the study, explains how deforestation altered the stoneflies' colouring. “In natural, forested regions, one stonefly species has evolved ‘warning’ colours, mimicking the appearance of a poisonous species to deter predators. But with forest removal, the poisonous species disappeared, eliminating the need for mimicry. As a result, the stonefly in deforested areas evolved into a different colour altogether.”
Dr Graham McCulloch, another co-author of the study, highlights the adaptability of some native species in the face of these rapid environmental changes. “Our study shows that some species have the resilience to adapt to human-caused changes, even when the shift is abrupt,” says Dr. McCulloch.
What was particularly fascinating was that stonefly populations in separate deforested areas independently evolved similar colour changes, suggesting that evolution can be a somewhat predictable process.
While this discovery is a hopeful example of adaptation, the research also underscores the intricate and delicate balance in