Free Essays, Term Papers, Research Papers at Anti Essays

Batesian Mimicry:
Examples in Nature

Batesian mimicry is defined by Tim Walker as “the protective resemblance in appearance of a harmless species to a dangerous species, which is usually avoided by predators” (Butterflies and Bad Taste). The word Batesian comes from the name Bates, and more specifically, Henry Bates. After observing butterflies in the Amazon in the late 1800’s, Bates came up with a theory. He stated that some organisms will mimic another (usually more successful) organism, by looking similar. (O’Leary). In reality one of these organisms may actually be harmful, but the other is not. However, the predator does not know this. To the predator, both organisms look similar, and if one is poisonous or harmful, then they think they other is as well. This works to the advantage of the organism doing the mimicking, because they have just spared their life and fooled the predator. A prime example of this mimicry is the Viceroy butterfly mimicking the Monarch butterfly.
The monarch butterfly is one of the most widely recognized butterflies. (Simon). Its yellow fluttering wings are easily spotted, which could be a reason why this butterfly is the most easily captured by children and novice naturalists. The monarch is a migrating butterfly and it heads south when the weather turns colder, but returns when the cold disappears. Upon return in the spring, Monarch butterflies lay their eggs in order to continue their species. (Simon). Like other butterflies, the eggs morph into caterpillars, with eventually spin a cocoon and morph into Monarch butterflies. The monarch butterflies sustain themselves on the nectar from milkweed plants, and in return, they aid in the pollination of the milkweed plants. This milkweed plant, when consumed by the Monarch butterfly, creates a bitter tasting film on the wings of the butterfly. This bitter taste does not sit well with bird who has tried previously to eat the Monarch butterflies. Birds...