Complex interplay between the microfluidic and optical properties of Hoplia sp. beetles

Abstract

All living organisms exist in a world affected by many external influences, especially water and light. Photonic nanostructures present in certain insects, have evolved over time in response to diverse environmental conditions, facilitating communication within and between species, camouflage, thermoregulation, hydration, and more. Up to now, only a few insect species have been discovered whose elytron changes its color due to permeation of water (or its vapor) through cuticle. Here we report on a scarabaeid beetle Hoplia argentea remarkable in its ability to shift from green to brownish-red when exposed to water, demonstrating reversible changes. Here we show that elytron and scales form a complex and efficient micro/nano-optofluidic system. Water is channeled into the elytral lacunae, then transported internally to the petals of the scales, where it is wicked inside each scale, pushing the entrapped air out. Wicking is a very fast process, occurring during a few seconds. The advantage of this principle is in extremely high pressure (approximately 15 bar) produced by capillary forces, which expediates permeation of air. We present optical models that explain the physical mechanisms behind the coloration, detailing how superhydrophilic properties influence optical behavior. Species within the genus Hoplia exhibit diverse coloration strategies, likely linked to their specific ecological niches. These organisms have evolved intricate optical and microfluidic systems that facilitate rapid alterations in body coloration, potentially serving purposes such as environmental camouflage and thermoregulation. Studying microfluidic and optical properties of the elytra will not only enhance our understanding of the biological purposes behind color change but also inspires design of artificial biomimetic devices. Dynamic fluid flow patterns, described in this paper, are fairly constant and unique and can be used in security applications as a, so called, physically unclonable functions (PUF). More broadly, this kind of microfluidic system can be used for controlled drug release, sensing, hydraulic and pneumatic pumping.