![]() The function of aposematism is to prevent attack, by warning potential predators that the prey animal has defenses such as being unpalatable or poisonous. Defense mechanism Flamboyant cuttlefish colours warn of toxicity He based the term on the Ancient Greek words ἀπό apo 'away' and σῆμα sēma 'sign', referring to signs that warn other animals away. The term aposematism was coined by the English zoologist Edward Bagnall Poulton in his 1890 book The Colours of Animals. There is good evidence for aposematism in terrestrial animals its existence in marine animals is possible but disputed. In Batesian mimicry, a mimicking species resembles an aposematic model closely enough to share the protection, while many species have bluffing deimatic displays which may startle a predator long enough to enable an otherwise undefended prey to escape. By mimicking similarly coloured species, the warning signal to predators is shared, causing them to learn more quickly at less of a cost.Ī genuine aposematic signal that a species actually possesses chemical or physical defences is not the only way to deter predators. Aposematism is exploited in Müllerian mimicry, where species with strong defences evolve to resemble one another. The term was coined in 1877 by Edward Bagnall Poulton for Alfred Russel Wallace's concept of warning coloration. Aposematic signals are beneficial for both predator and prey, since both avoid potential harm. These advertising signals may take the form of conspicuous coloration, sounds, odours, or other perceivable characteristics. This unprofitability may consist of any defenses which make the prey difficult to kill and eat, such as toxicity, venom, foul taste or smell, sharp spines, or aggressive nature. The honey badger's reverse countershading makes it conspicuous, honestly signalling its ability to defend itself through its aggressive temperament and its sharp teeth and claws.Īposematism is the advertising by an animal to potential predators that it is not worth attacking or eating. The bright colours of this granular poison frog signal a warning to predators of its toxicity. Honest signalling of an animal's powerful defences ![]()
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