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Explain what would happen to an animal species classified as a Batesian mimic if it did not have its mimicry attributes.

User Janusz
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Final answer:

Without its mimicry attributes, an animal species that previously practiced Batesian mimicry would suffer from increased predation due to the loss of protective coloration that once deterred predators by mimicking a harmful species.

Step-by-step explanation:

If an animal species classified as a Batesian mimic did not have its mimicry attributes, it would likely experience an increased loss through predation. Batesian mimicry is an adaptation where a harmless species imitates the warning coloration of a harmful one. Without these mimicry attributes, predators would not be deterred by the animal's appearance, as they would not associate them with danger or unpleasant taste. In this scenario, the mimic loses its protective shield, thus becoming more susceptible to being preyed upon.

For instance, many insects mimic the coloration of wasps or bees, which are known to be stinging and venomous. This mimicry wards off predators, offering protection to the mimicking species. If these mimicry characteristics were lost, the now conspicuous animals would essentially be signaling to predators that they are a safe meal, leading to a higher rate of them being eaten.

User Atogle
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