Final answer:
Baby red-eared slider turtles have bright colors that serve as a warning to predators. These colors signal the turtle's ability to defend itself and deter predators. As the turtle grows bigger, it loses its bright colors.
Step-by-step explanation:
Baby red-eared slider turtles are brightly colored. These turtles have bold patterns on their yellowish undershells, which serve as a warning to predators. The bright colors of skunks and other animals also serve as a warning and signal that the animals will spray nasty chemicals. In contrast, the turtle's colors warn largemouth bass that the baby turtle will actively defend itself. For example, when a bass gulps down a turtle, the feisty baby claws and bites, forcing the bass to spit it out to avoid a painful experience. This experience teaches the bass to avoid other baby red-eared slider turtles. However, as the turtle grows bigger, it loses its bright colors, making it a less tempting snack for bass.
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