Submitted by Anubis2059 t3_ybc5zn in explainlikeimfive
Comments
iDarick t1_itfok6i wrote
I'm not sure which insects you have there, but my yellow lights are occupied by a whole gang of insects of different species. Yellow helmet and raincoat is PACKED with a layer if left outdoors.
I don't think that's how they work, can be wrong. If you have any studies on the subject — please share.
Anubis2059 OP t1_itfos5h wrote
It's what I've usually heard about yellow lights acting like a deterrent and have noticed how all bug zappers use blue light to attract insects.
iDarick t1_itfp2fe wrote
Look I'm ADHD person, this topic will be carefully researched after I'm back from mushroom hunt. Will keep you posted.
FluffyBoner t1_itig9p2 wrote
Hope your mushroom hunt went well
iDarick t1_itkes2s wrote
It did, thank you! I haven't forgotten about bugs and lights, just was too exhausted. Update coming today!
travelinmatt76 t1_itfqbuf wrote
Yellow lights don't repel insects, less insects are attracted to or respond to yellow lights.
iDarick t1_itmmlf5 wrote
Hey! Sorry it took a while, fuck the war. We don't have electricity for the most part of the day.
Well in general I was correct assuming that's not how bugs work. But there is such a thing as light color preference. I've studied Lepidoptera (butterflies and moths), Coleoptera (beetles), and Hemiptera (true bugs). Each has a slight preference in wavelength (color). However, it's not like any moth won't fly to blue light or any beetle towards orange. There is a clear pattern, but that's not a rule.
However, since that's ELI5:
- Moths and butterflies like more orange-> red-> infrared colors.
- True bugs are more into blue-> cyan-> green-> yellow
- Beetles seems to prefer ultraviolet -> blue-> cyan.
Some nice studies on the topic:
One, Two, Three
Have a wonderful day, take care and keep your mind curious!
Oh and fuck putin.
iDarick t1_itmn03e wrote
To anyone who downvoted, please see my comment below. You're wrong.
tinyfrog244B t1_itfocwj wrote
Yellow lights emit more short-wavelength light than blue lights, making them appear brighter to insects. Insects are attracted to the brightness of the light and are drawn toward it.