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Nature 447, 148 (10 May 2007) | doi:10.1038/447148a; Published online 9 May 2007

Science in culture: Hidden talent

David M. Wilkinson1

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An exhibition in London explores the art of blending into the background.

Many moth species spend the day resting on tree trunks, where they can be remarkably difficult to spot. Their camouflage comprises a number of aspects, including matching the background colour (crypsis) and using disruptive patterns that make it harder to distinguish the moth's outline.