139k views
0 votes
When several unrelated animals all possess a powerful defense and all look alike, the principle is known as:

Select one:
a. Batesian Mimicry
b. Analogous Mimicry
c. Mullerian Mimicry
d. Similar Mimicry
e. Aposematic Colouration

1 Answer

4 votes

Final answer:

The principle where several unrelated toxic animals resemble each other for a shared protective advantage is known as Mullerian Mimicry.

Step-by-step explanation:

When several unrelated animals all possess a powerful defense and all look alike, this principle is known as Mullerian Mimicry. This type of mimicry involves different species that both produce toxins and display similar warning coloration. In contrast, Batesian Mimicry occurs when a harmless species imitates the warning coloration of a harmful one. However, in the case of Mullerian Mimicry, all the species involved are genuinely unpleasant or toxic to predators, creating a shared signal that enhances the survival of all species involved.

The principle you are referring to is called Mullerian Mimicry. It occurs when several unrelated animals possess a powerful defense mechanism and all look alike. This principle involves different species that produce toxins and display similar warning coloration to deter predators. An example of Mullerian mimicry is seen with various foul-tasting butterflies with similar coloration.

User Andrew Hampton
by
9.5k points