Mimicry is an evolutionary adaptation that increases the chance of survival of individuals that visually resemble distasteful species. The striking patterns and colors associated with distasteful species deters predators that learn to associate this signal with an unpleasant meal. In Batesian mimicry individuals of a palatable species gain protection from predation by resembling distasteful species. While in Müllerian mimicry distasteful species resemble each other and effectively lower the costs associated with predator education. In Lepidoptera mimicry can increase intraspecific wing pattern variation in both Batesian and Müllerian mimics. The Danaini (Nymphalidae: Danainae) are distasteful models and Müllerian mimics that exemplify intraspecific wing pattern diversity. On the islands of Southeast Asia individual Danaini species can exhibit anywhere from 2-30 distinct wing patterns. Testing hypotheses about the drivers of wing pattern diversity is challenging due to the qualitative nature of wing pattern variation. We employ an image-based computational pipeline to first quantify wing pattern diversity in Euploea butterflies. We then address the eco-evolutionary processes potentially generating or maintaining insular wing pattern diversity in these butterflies. By sharing my own experiences, I will highlight the importance of creating supportive environments where queer scientists do not feel the need to hide their identities. This presentation will draw parallels to the experiences of queer scientists who navigate their career and personal lives while feeling the pressure to conform to their environments.
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