Pollination, Crypsis, Aposematic Coloration, and Mimicry

2-22-05

pollinationTo transfer pollen from an anther to a stigma

anther

stigma

Orchid bees are both beautiful and good pollinators.

Aposematic colorationconspicuous coloration or markings of an animal serving to warn off predators

Chinese Red-bellied Newt

Chinese Red-bellied Newt

If an animal has a dull back and bright undersides, the Unken Reflex may be used. They flash the bright colors, and frighten the predator.

CrypsisCamouflage; blending in with surroundings

Killdeer on nest

The Fer-de-Lance relies on crypsis.

VALUE OF COUNTERSHADING

• Many aquatic/marine animals are dark on top and light on the bottom. This is so predators approaching from the top see a dark back against a dark background, and predators from below see a light venter against a light sky.

mimicrythe resemblance of an animal species to another species or to natural objects; provides concealment and protection from predators

TYPES OF MIMICRY

• Batesian mimicry: The model is poisonous/venomous, and the mimic is harmless.

• Müllerian mimicry: The model is poisonous/venomous, and the mimic is, too.

The mimic - Milk snake - non-venomous

The model - Coral snake - venomous

BATESIAN MIMICRY

MORE NON-VENOMOUS BATESIAN MIMICS

ANOTHER BATESIAN MIMIC.

Mimicry is favored by selection and passed on to future generations (evolution)