Question

When Underwing Moths open their wings, this happens:

a. Bright patterns appear that might startle a predator
b. Orange horns pop out that look like a snake's tongue
c. A bad odor is released that makes the predator ill
d. Fake eyes appear that make the moths look like larger animals, which startle the attacker

Answer 1

When Underwing Moths open their wings, fake eyes appear that make the moths look like larger animals, which startle the attacker. This is a form of mimicry defense mechanism.

Step-by-step explanation:

When Underwing Moths open their wings, fake eyes appear that make the moths look like larger animals, which startle the attacker. This is a defensive mechanism known as mimicry, specifically Batesian mimicry. By resembling a larger, potentially dangerous animal, the Underwing Moth is able to scare away predators.

This type of defensive strategy is commonly observed in nature, where organisms mimic the appearance or behavior of other, more formidable species to protect themselves from predation. For example, some butterflies share a similar color pattern with unpleasant-tasting varieties, tricking predators into thinking they are also distasteful.

In conclusion, when Underwing Moths open their wings, they employ a mimicry defense mechanism by displaying fake eyes that resemble larger animals, startling potential attackers and reducing the risk of predation.