warning coloration

noun

, Biology.

a bold, distinctive pattern of color characteristic of a poisonous or unpalatable organism, as the skunk or the monarch butterfly, that functions as a warning to and defense against predators.

warning coloration

/ wôr′nĭng /

Conspicuously recognizable markings of an animal that serve to warn potential predators of the nuisance or harm that would come from attacking or eating it. The bold patterns of skunks and the bright colors of poison arrow frogs are examples of warning coloration.
Also called aposematic coloration
Compare camouflage

First recorded in 1925–30

There are no grounds, however, for supposing that the mantids had any appreciation of the warning coloration of the Acraeines.

The preceding outline will sufficiently explain the characteristics of "warning coloration" and the end it serves in nature.

The Monarch is thus an example of what has often been called warning coloration.

Along with the theory of warning coloration the theory of mimicry has been propounded.

April 19, 2024tortuous

[tawr-choo-uhs ]

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