Divergence in sleep architecture associated with interspecific shifts in memory investment

Heliconius melpomene shows more frequent bouts of active sleep than the outgroup Heliconiini Dryas iulia, with quiet sleep differing in antennal dynamics.

• Why it matters: Sleep stabilizes memory, but it is unknown whether sleep architecture co-evolves with investment in learning and memory across species.
• What they did: The study used a purpose-built video system, machine-learning behavioural tracking, and micro-behaviour analysis during nighttime quiescence to compare multi-state sleep in Heliconius melpomene and Dryas iulia.
• The result: Quiet sleep is rhythmic and stereotyped in Dryas iulia, while Heliconius melpomene shows largely motionless antennae interrupted by large antennal deflections linked to activity bouts that differ from induced wakefulness.

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