WARNING COLORATION: THE USE OF BOLD COLORS IN NATURE
The use of warning coloration, also known as aposematic coloration, is a common phenomenon that can be found in the animal kingdom. Warning coloration is a type of protective coloration that is used by animals to advertise their presence to predators, and to ward off would-be attackers (Müller, 1879). It is characterized by bright, contrasting colors that are thought to be an evolutionary adaptation to increase the animal’s chances of survival (Poulton, 1890; Cott, 1940).
The primary purpose of warning coloration is to serve as a warning to potential predators that the animal is dangerous or inedible. By advertising their presence, the animal is able to reduce the amount of time spent in a predator’s path, and to reduce the risk of being attacked (Poulton, 1890). This type of coloration is often seen in animals that are venomous or distasteful, such as poison dart frogs, monarch butterflies, and wasps. Additionally, warning coloration can also be used by animals to indicate that they are not to be disturbed or that they are in a vulnerable state, such as when a snake is shedding its skin.
The effectiveness of warning coloration is clearly demonstrated in a variety of studies. For example, a study by Pfennig and Pfennig (1999) found that the presence of warning coloration significantly decreased a predator’s likelihood of attacking a prey. Similarly, a study by Endler (1981) found that the presence of warning coloration increased the survival rates of a species of lizard.
In addition to being effective in reducing predation, warning coloration can also be used as a means of communication between animals. For example, many species of butterflies use warning coloration to indicate to other members of their species that they are male or female (Frisch, 1934). This type of communication allows animals to quickly identify potential mates and competitors in their environment.
Overall, warning coloration is a useful adaptation that is used by many animals to reduce predation and to communicate with other members of their species. By advertising their presence, animals are able to reduce the chances of being attacked by predators and to increase their chances of survival.
References
Cott, H. B. (1940). Adaptive Coloration in Animals. London: Methuen.
Endler, J.A. (1981). Geographic Variation, Speciation, and Clines. Princeton: Princeton University Press.
Frisch, K. (1934). Die Bionomie der Schmetterlinge. Berlin: Springer.
Müller, F. (1879). The Diurnal Lepidoptera of the British Islands. London: West, Newman & Co.
Pfennig, D.W., & Pfennig, K.S. (1999). Predator-induced morphological diversification in the Trinidadian guppy (Poecilia reticulata). Evolution, 53(3), 748-758.
Poulton, E.B. (1890). The Colours of Animals: Their Meaning and Use Especially Considered in the Case of Insects. London: Kegan Paul, Trench & Co.