EVERYDAY SCIENCE

SCIENCE

ECOLOGY

Question [CLICK ON ANY CHOICE TO KNOW THE RIGHT ANSWER]
The poison dart frog exhibits bright coloration to warn potential predators of its toxicity. This is known as
A
Aposematic coloration
B
Mimicry
C
Cryptic coloration
D
Toxic coloration
Explanation: 

Detailed explanation-1: -This is known as aposematism. The idea is that bright colors are used to inform the possible predators about the unpalatability of the prey (Joron, 2009). In fact, aposematic species are usually venomous, or produce some kind of toxin or are somehow distasteful to predators (Mappes et al., 2005).

Detailed explanation-2: -Poison dart frogs (Dendrobatidae) are well known for their striking aposematic (warning) signals: distinctive, conspicuous coloration signaling potent toxins (1, 2).

Detailed explanation-3: -Aposematic (warning) coloration is a biological phenomenon in which poisonous, dangerous or otherwise unpalatable organisms visually advertise these qualities to other animals (Cott 1940; Edmunds 1974; Gittleman and Harvey 1980; Ruxton et al. 2004).

Detailed explanation-4: -Animals that warn predators of their dangerous nature are called aposematic. Lionfish advertise their venomous spines with waving flags and banners. Bright or contrasting color patterns, such as the yellow and black stripes of a wasp, serve as common aposematic signals.

Detailed explanation-5: -aposematism, also called aposematic mechanism, biological means by which a dangerous, or noxious, organism advertises its dangerous nature to a potential predator. The predator, having recognized the dangerous organism as an unfavourable prey, thereupon desists from attacking it.

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