Batesian mimicry

a form of mimicry in which a species that is nontoxic or palatable to predators mimics the physical shape or coloration of a toxic species. For example, some species of flies have black and yellow coloration similar to bees and wasps with stingers. When predators learn to avoid noxious prey and form generalizations about similar-looking animals, then nontoxic animals are more likely to survive by mimicking the toxic species. [Henry Walter Bates (1825–1892), British naturalist]

Browse dictionary by letter

a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q r s t u v w x y z

Psychology term of the day

November 18th 2024

hedonic well-being

the type of happiness or contentment that is achieved when pleasure is obtained and pain is avoided. Compare eudaimonic well-being.