Predators Often Avoid a Mimic Species Because of ____

Question

Predators often avoid a mimic species because of ____.  
A) bad taste
B) toxic secretion
C) resemblance to a well-defended species
D) painful sting
E) cryptic coloration

Accepted Answer

Predators often avoid a mimic species because of its resemblance to a well-defended species. This phenomenon is known as Batesian mimicry, named after the naturalist Henry Walter Bates, who first described this phenomenon. The mimicry allows the mimicking species to avoid predation by fooling the predator into thinking that it is a dangerous or unpalatable species. The mimic species benefits from this as predators will avoid it, thereby increasing its chances of survival and reproductive success.