You are an evolutionary entomologist. You have observed beetles that can raise their abdomens and give off a defensive chemical that generally repels predators. You discover a new species of beetle that raises its abdomen in a threatening way similar to the first species, but no defensive chemical is given off. You are most likely to characterize this defensive strategy in the new beetle as a form of ____.
A) camouflage
B) chemical warfare
C) mimicry
D) flight mechanism
E) warning coloration

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The new species of beetle is mimicking the defensive strategy of the first species, but does not actually have the chemical deterrent. Mimicry is a common type of defensive strategy in which an organism imitates the appearance or behavior of another organism for protection. In this case, the new beetle is mimicking the posture of the original beetle, which serves as a warning to predators that it may have a chemical defense.

You Are an Evolutionary Entomologist