Effect of model to mimic ratio on predation of the model phenotype.

Abstract

Batesian mimicry is one of many methods prey species have evolved to increase their fitness. This type of mimmicry occurs when a palatable organism mimics the physical appearance of an unpalatable model organism. The effectiveness of mimicry may depend on the amount of models relative to the amount of mimics. To test the effect of model to mimic ratio on predation of the model phenotype, we presented palatable and unpalatable white lardworms at differing ratios to foraging birds. We found a nonlinear relationship between the percent predation on white lardworms and the model to mimic ratio. If the success of mimicry depends on the model to mimic ratio, this may contribute to greater understanding of the stability of mimicry systems.