Relationship between model noxiousness and mimetic accuracy in myrmecomorphic spiders

Abstract

Batesian mimics benefit from their phenotypic similarity to their models. An apparent paradox is the presence of many inaccurate mimics in nature. Many hypotheses have been proposed to explain their existence, including the relaxed selection hypothesis, which postulates that the level of mimetic resemblance avoided by predators is context-dependent. More specifically, predators avoid mimics of lower resemblance that imitate highly noxious models due to the high cost of mistakenly attacking such models. We tested this hypothesis using data on 93 pairs of ant-mimicking spider species and their models. We measured the mimetic resemblance in each spider to its putative model. Then, we estimated the noxiousness of ant models on the basis of their defensive arsenal (i.e. mandibles, spines, sting, and chemical defense). In support of the relaxed selection hypothesis, we found a negative correlation between model noxiousness and mimetic accuracy. The proportion of the variability in mimetic accuracy explained by model noxiousness was not high, indicating that other factors influence the evolution of mimetic accuracy. Finally, this comparative analysis provides evidence of the influence of model noxiousness on mimetic accuracy in a Batesian mimicry system.

A Novel Probabilistic Diffusion Model Based on the Weak Selection Mimicry Theory for the Generation of Hypnotic Songs

“…For example, in the realm of sound, birds and insects are known to mimic the songs or calls of other species to attract mates or establish their territory [61,62]. Weak selection mimicry is a special case of mimicry in which the mimicry sample does not perfectly resemble its target but still exhibits a few of the target's local traits [47,63]. Weak selection mimicry can actually represent a stable evolutionary outcome and is a common phenomenon in nature.…”

Aversive reactions of two invertebrate predators to European red–black insects

“…For instance, there is evidence that predators would have a broader spectrum of generalization/avoidance toward the signals of a highly noxious prey in comparison to moderate ones (Alcock, 1970; Darst & Cummings, 2006; Goodale & Sneddon, 1977). Consequently, a higher unpalatability could weaken the selection for accurate mimetic resemblance in mimics of more noxious models (reviewed in Kikuchi & Pfennig, 2013; see also Segovia & Pekár, 2021).…”