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Updated: Jul 1, 2026
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Manipulation of Color Patterns in Jumping Spiders for Use in Behavioral Experiments
Published on: May 21, 2019
Warning signals evolve to disengage Batesian mimics
Daniel W Franks1, Graeme D Ruxton, Thomas N Sherratt
1York Centre for Complex Systems Analysis (YCCSA), Department of Biology, University of York, United Kingdom. df525@york.ac.uk
Evolution; International Journal of Organic Evolution
|September 13, 2008
Summary
Unprofitable prey evolve conspicuous warning signals to avoid being mistaken for edible prey. This study introduces a coevolutionary model showing conspicuousness increases with unprofitability, supporting the confusion-avoidance theory.
Area of Science:
- Evolutionary biology
- Ecology
- Animal behavior
Background:
- Unprofitable prey often display conspicuous warning signals.
- Conventional theory attributes these signals to predator receiver biases.
- This study questions whether biases cause or result from warning signals.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the alternative theory that conspicuousness in unprofitable prey evolves to prevent confusion with profitable prey.
- To model the coevolution of warning signals, Batesian mimicry, and signal detectability.
Main Methods:
- Developed the first coevolutionary model incorporating Batesian mimicry and variable signal detectability.
- Simulated scenarios where prey appearance traits can evolve multidimensionally.
Main Results:
- Unprofitable prey can evolve cryptic signals for distinction, especially with multidimensional traits.
- Conspicuous warning signals evolve when distinguishing from the background is easier than matching it.
- Higher prey unprofitability correlates with increased evolved conspicuousness.
Conclusions:
- Results support the theory that unprofitable prey evolve conspicuous signals to avoid misidentification by predators.
- Peak shift in conspicuousness-linked traits is a significant factor in the establishment of warning signals.
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