Lab 11 Response

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School

University of Phoenix *

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Course

280

Subject

Anthropology

Date

Oct 30, 2023

Type

docx

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Uploaded by PrivateKookaburaMaster1033

There are some very distinct advantages to having different wing patterns among these butterfly species. One advantage, which was discussed briefly in the article, is mimicry. Mimicry is a competitive advantage that animals have that is most commonly used as an anti-predator adaptation. Producing wing patterns that closely resemble that of other animals are beneficial to prevent becoming prey. This type of mimicry, called Batesian mimicry, is seen when a harmless species, in this case a butterfly, evolved to imitate the warning signs of another usually harmful species in order to scare away potential predators. For example, a butterfly may have a wing pattern that resembles the face of another animal. This is used to deter other predators away from it. This type of advantage can lead to a species of butterfly thriving in very dangerous environments. Another advantage that differing wing patterns can produce is the process of camouflage. If a butterfly species doesn’t have the distinct wing pattern to look like a harmful species, then producing a wing pattern that blends into the environment is an alternative. Butterflies usually live in habitats near wooded areas so blending into the surroundings is a great way to hide from potential predators. A wing pattern that resembles tree bark can help a butterfly elude birds, lizards, and other common butterfly predators. This is another evolutionary advantage that has been beneficial to species of butterfly surviving for millions of years. A third advantage to producing wing patterns may be to find mates. Butterfly wings can come in many different patterns and colors and in order to attract mates, some butterflies need to develop colorful wings. In this case the bright colors make the butterfly more appealing to others, and in order for the species to survive they have to mate. The evolutionary process of producing different wing patterns has helped many species of butterflies survive millions of years and by continuing to do, they will continue to remain alive.

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