Cyphochilus

Cyphochilus is a genus of beetles occurring in Southeast Asia. The same name also carries a genus of orchids. The beetles protect themselves from predators by imitating the white coloring of a fungus ( mimesis ).

Peculiarities of coloration

The animals are whiter than almost any other known dyes. The coloring is even more perfect than most dyes artificially generated. However, it is not produced by pigments, but arises from the fact that light on the five microns thick, irregularly shaped flakes, which are distributed all over the body hits, and is reflected there. The scales have to scatter the light in all wavelengths equal to achieve this perfect white color. In order to achieve the same result, artificially generated surfaces must be at least twice as thick. It is believed that the white armor of the animals used for camouflage, as they are often found on white mushrooms. Scientists are keen to use the secret of the super white armor for humans, such as to develop ultra white plastics.