Question

Milkweed is a common field plant that produces a cardiac glycoside that, like digitalis, stimulates heart contractions. The synthesis of this compound ensures the survival of this plant species because the glycoside is toxic to most herbivores with a notable exception - the monarch butterfly. Female monarchs lay their eggs on milkweed and the resulting larvae (caterpillars) feed on milkweed leaves. An enzyme produced by the caterpillars allows them to ingest and store the toxin without ill effects. After pupation, adult monarchs emerge with a conspicuous bright orange and black banding pattern and retain the toxic glycoside in their systems.

Viceroy butterflies are almost identical to monarchs in possessing the conspicuous banding pattern. However, viceroys cannot metabolize or store the toxic glycoside.

The conspicuous banding displayed by monarch butterflies is an example of...

Answer 1

The conspicuous banding displayed by monarch butterflies is an example of mimicry.

Step-by-step explanation:

The conspicuous banding displayed by monarch butterflies is an example of mimicry. The Viceroy butterfly mimics the bright orange and black banding of the monarch butterfly in order to deter predators. By mimicking the appearance of the toxic monarch butterfly, the Viceroy butterfly gains a survival advantage by being avoided by predators.